The Gulfstream G280 is a mid-sized corporate jet manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for Gulfstream Aerospace. It evolved from the Gulfstream G200, with initial design and planning starting in 2005. The goal was to create an upgraded version featuring a glass cockpit, new avionics systems, engines, and a larger wing.
Originally named the G250, the new model took its maiden flight in December 2009 in Tel Aviv. However, due to cultural sensitivities, it was later renamed the G280. Regulatory certification was achieved in September 2012, and the aircraft entered commercial service thereafter. The assembly took place in Israel, and the final painting and interior finishing were done in Dallas, Texas. Over 200 G280s have been delivered since then.
The G280 boasts impressive specifications, including a crew of two and a passenger capacity of up to 10 in executive-style seating. It has a payload capacity of 4,050 lbs and dimensions of 66 ft 10 in in length, 63 ft in wingspan, and 21 ft 4 in in height. The aircraft is powered by two Honeywell HTF7250G turbofan engines, each providing over 7,600 lbf of takeoff thrust.
While the G280 shares some design elements with the G200, detailed design and configuration were primarily conducted by IAI, resulting in a new type certification. Notably, the removal of the aft fuselage fuel tank has increased the cabin interior size by nearly 1.5 ft.
The aircraft features advanced systems such as the PlaneView280™ flight deck, Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS), and Synthetic Vision-Primary Flight Display with 3D graphics of terrain and runways. Its versatility extends to short-runway operations, requiring a maximum takeoff distance of 4,750 ft and capability to operate on challenging surfaces and trails.
The Gulfstream G280 ensures a smooth and comfortable ride with its spacious cabin and customizable executive seating options. Designed to cater to elite passengers, the cabin offers ample space for baggage, allowing passengers access to their belongings during the flight.
Gulfstream prioritizes passenger comfort with its three-point approach: Rest, Thrive, and Focus. The cabin’s quiet engines and sleep configuration, accommodating up to five passengers in fully lie-flat seats, provide a peaceful environment for rest. Cabin enhancements help minimize travel fatigue, tiredness, and jet lag, with features like 100% fresh air and natural light from large oval windows. Gulfstream emphasizes that the G280 maintains the lowest cabin altitude in its class.
The aircraft’s performance is equally impressive, with a maximum speed of Mach 0.84 and a cruise speed of 459 knots (528 mph, 850 km/h) at normal altitude. It boasts an operational range of 3,600 nautical miles (4,143 mi, 6,667 km) at Mach 0.80 with four passengers and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet (13,716 m). Fuel consumption is approximately 1,900 lb per hour.
The G280 stands out for its low specific fuel consumption (SFC) and clean aerodynamic profile, which not only reduces drag in the air but also contributes to lower carbon emissions. Gulfstream is committed to sustainability, leading the industry with new aircraft technologies and environmentally responsible practices.
