The super-midsize jet category is a fierce battleground, and for good reason. These aircraft offer the perfect blend of intercontinental range, speed, and business-class comfort, all while providing a more cost-effective solution than larger, ultra-long-range jets. For business aircraft sales, the competition among the Challenger 3500, Praetor 600, Gulfstream G280, and Citation Longitude is particularly tight. While all are exceptional performers, each has a distinct mission profile and set of strengths. Here is a high-level head-to-head comparison to help you understand some of the key differences.

EMBRAER PRAETOR 600: THE LONG-RANGE DISRUPTOR

The Praetor 600 burst onto the scene in 2018 with one clear objective: to dominate the range category. It’s based on the proven Legacy 500 platform but with added fuel capacity and upgraded engines.

• Standout Feature: The longest range in its class. With a range of over 4,000 nautical miles, it can connect far-flung city pairs like London and Dubai or São Paulo and Miami nonstop.
• Cabin Experience: The Praetor 600 boasts a six-foot, flat-floor cabin with advanced features like full fly-by-wire controls with active turbulence reduction for a smoother ride. A larger cabin length compared to many of its rivals and ample baggage space (partially external) make it a comfortable choice.  The cabin noise levels are one of the quietest in all of aviation. 
• Best For: Buyers prioritizing maximum range and fuel efficiency. The Praetor 600 is less expensive to operate than many of its rivals, offering tremendous value combined with capability and technology.

BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 3500: THE COMFORT KING

The Challenger 3500 is the latest evolution of a proven and popular platform. Bombardier’s focus with the 3500 is firmly on the passenger experience, making it a favorite among corporate flight departments and frequent business travelers.

• Standout Feature: Unmatched cabin comfort. The 3500 features the widest cabin in its class, a flat floor, and Bombardier’s patented Nuage “zero-gravity” seats. A cabin altitude of 4,850 feet, the lowest in its class, and advanced sound insulation ensure you arrive feeling refreshed.
• Cockpit and Tech: The flight deck features an advanced avionics suite with an autothrottle system, available head-up display, and enhanced vision system. Passengers can control cabin features via voice commands.
• Best For: Buyers for whom passenger comfort and on-board productivity are the top priorities. The Challenger 3500 offers a luxurious experience with best-in-class reliability and strong operational support.

GULFSTREAM G280: THE SPEED LEADER

The Gulfstream G280 leverages Gulfstream’s reputation for high performance and premium design. The G280 offers exceptional speed for a super-midsize jet.

• Standout Feature: Fastest in its class. With a top speed of Mach 0.85, the G280 is slightly faster than its rivals.
• Efficiency and Range: A new clean-wing design provides excellent fuel efficiency and a respectable range of 3,600 nautical miles.
• Best For: Operators who value a high-speed aircraft and the proven brand support of Gulfstream.

CITATION LONGITUDE: THE BALANCED PERFORMER

The Citation Longitude was a new entry into the super-midsize market by Textron Aviation, leveraging the legacy of the Citation family. It offers a combination of competitive range, quiet cabin, and low operating costs.

• Standout Features: Low Operating Costs & Textron Support.  The Citation Longitude provides a strong mix of performance and comfort at a competitive direct operating costs.
• Cabin Experience: Passengers enjoy a quiet cabin, a flat floor, and a low cabin altitude of 5,950 feet.
• Best For: Businesses prioritizing Textron support, low operating costs and relatively good payload capacity with full fuel, along with a quiet, comfortable cabin.

THE VERDICT

The choice ultimately depends on your mission profile.

• Choose the Praetor 600 if: Your travel frequently involves transcontinental flights where maximum range is your priority and are seeking some of the newest technology available such as advanced fly-by-wire controls with active turbulence reduction.  Comfortable seating and whisper-quiet noise levels further ensures a superior passenger experience on every intercontinental journey.
• Choose the Challenger 3500 if: You are looking for an aircraft with the ultimate blend of passenger comfort, technology, and low operating costs, making it one of the most reliable and dependable super-midsize jets in its class.  It’s widest-in-class cabin, revolutionary Nuage seats, and voice-controlled features provide a superior travel experience, while its strong dispatch reliability and top-notch Bombardier support ensures peace of mind for operators.
• Choose the Gulfstream G280 if:  You are seeking a combination of speed and a spacious, luxurious cabin, making it an ideal super-midsize jet for transcontinental travel and enhanced passenger comfort. Its impressive runway performance and fuel efficiency also provide access to more destinations with lower operating costs
• Choose the Citation Longitude if: You want a combination of a quiet, comfortable, spacious cabin combined with impressive range and low direct operating costs.  Its reliable performance is backed by the Textron Aviation extensive support network and industry-leading maintenance intervals, ensuring maximum uptime and high return on investment.

Each of these aircraft represents a best-in-class option in its own right, and a detailed mission analysis will be essential to making the right choice for your business aircraft sales decision.  Market conditions and product availability will also be a critical part of the equation.  The professionals at Holstein Aviation can work with you to clearly understand your needs, share the current market dynamics, and help you make an informed decision that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.