Falcon 50EX vs G280
The G280 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Dassault Aviation Falcon 50EX (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 G280 has the advantage. undefined
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Falcon 50EX vs G280: the key differences
- The G280 delivers 12% more range (Falcon 50EX: 3,225 nm; G280: 3,600 nm).
- The Falcon 50EX and G280 are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 459 kt.
- The G280 delivers 11% more passenger capacity (Falcon 50EX: 9 seats; G280: 10 seats).
- The G280 is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 1996 for the Falcon 50EX), a gap of 16 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Falcon 50EX is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (40,780 lbs versus 39,600 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the Falcon 50EX runs 3 engines against 2 on the G280 — a factor in redundancy, maintenance scope and operating cost.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The G280 is the stronger fit for long-haul and transatlantic missions — its 3,600 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The Falcon 50EX, at 3,225 nm, is better matched to transcontinental missions, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the Falcon 50EX's range, the G280's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the G280 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Falcon 50EX can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
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Falcon 50EX vs G280: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Falcon 50EX or the G280?
The G280 has the longer published range — 3,600 nm versus 3,225 nm for the Falcon 50EX.
Does the Falcon 50EX or G280 seat more passengers?
The G280 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 10 seats, compared with 9 on the Falcon 50EX.
Which is newer, the Falcon 50EX or the G280?
The G280 is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 1996 for the Falcon 50EX.
Is the Falcon 50EX or the G280 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Falcon 50EX is the larger aircraft — 40,780 lbs versus 39,600 lbs for the G280.
Should I buy the Falcon 50EX or the G280?
On published specifications the G280 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Falcon 50EX can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the Falcon 50EX 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.