Gulfstream G280 vs Cessna Citation X
The Citation X and Gulfstream G280 are super-mid-size jets that buyers compare for transcontinental business travel. The Citation X delivers class-leading speed, while the G280 offers Gulfstream cabin refinement, excellent range, and strong short-field performance. The matchup pits raw speed against cabin pedigree and range.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Gulfstream G280 | Cessna Citation X |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | $11,900,000 – $22,750,000 | $3,750,000 – $11,200,000 |
| Category | Super-Midsize Jet | Super-Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 12 |
| Cruise Speed | 459 kts (850 km/h) | 480 kts (889 km/h) |
| Range | 3,600 nm (6,667 km) | 3,070 nm (5,686 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 39,600 lbs (17,963 kg) | 36,100 lbs (16,375 kg) |
| Useful Load | 10,500 lbs (4,763 kg) | 6,800 lbs (3,084 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 1,200.0 gal (4542 L) | 1,050.0 gal (3974 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 240.0 GPH (908 L/h) | 260.0 GPH (984 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $550,000 | $600,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $450,000 | $500,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $3,200 | $3,800 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateGulfstream G280
Fuel$1,320/hr
Variable$3,200/hr
Annual Fixed$450,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$1,090,000/yr
Cessna Citation X
Fuel$1,430/hr
Variable$3,800/hr
Annual Fixed$500,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$1,260,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Gulfstream G280 or Cessna Citation X?
Bottom line: Choose the Citation X if minimizing flight time with the highest cruise speed matters most. Pick the G280 for a more refined cabin, better range, and the Gulfstream support and resale reputation; the G280 is the all-around premium choice, while the X is the speed specialist.
Pick the G280 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$3200/hr vs $3800/hr.
- Longer range — 3600 nm vs 3070 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2012 vs 1996.
Pick the Citation X if…
- Budget matters — from $3,750,000 vs $11,900,000, you save ~$8,150,000.
- More seats — 12 vs 10.
- Faster cruise — 480 kts vs 459 kts.
- More inventory — 36 listings vs 23.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Gulfstream G280 or Cessna Citation X?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The G280 cruises at 459 kts with 3,600 nm range.
The Citation X cruises at 480 kts with 3,070 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Gulfstream G280 and Cessna Citation X?
Seats: 10 vs 12.
Cruise: 459 vs 480 kts.
Range: 3600 vs 3070 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
G280: about $3200/hr variable cost.
Citation X: about $3800/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
G280: 10 seats / 10,500 lb useful load.
Citation X: 12 seats / 6,800 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
G280: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$550,000.
Citation X: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$600,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data