Challenger 604 vs G280
The G280 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Bombardier Aviation Challenger 604 (introduced 1996) against the Gulfstream Aerospace G280 (introduced 2012) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are business jets, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Challenger 604 has the advantage. undefined
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
Challenger 604 vs G280: the key differences
- The Challenger 604 delivers 12% more range (Challenger 604: 4,027 nm; G280: 3,600 nm).
- The Challenger 604 and G280 are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 459 kt.
- The G280 delivers 11% more passenger capacity (Challenger 604: 9 seats; G280: 10 seats).
- The G280 is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 1996 for the Challenger 604), a gap of 16 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Challenger 604 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (47,600 lbs versus 39,600 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for long-haul and transatlantic missions, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the G280 seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Challenger 604 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G280 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Challenger 604 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
More comparisons
Challenger 604 vs G280: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Challenger 604 or the G280?
The Challenger 604 has the longer published range — 4,027 nm versus 3,600 nm for the G280.
Does the Challenger 604 or G280 seat more passengers?
The G280 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 10 seats, compared with 9 on the Challenger 604.
Which is newer, the Challenger 604 or the G280?
The G280 is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 1996 for the Challenger 604.
Is the Challenger 604 or the G280 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Challenger 604 is the larger aircraft — 47,600 lbs versus 39,600 lbs for the G280.
Should I buy the Challenger 604 or the G280?
Choose the Challenger 604 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the G280 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Challenger 604 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the Challenger 604 vs G280?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.