First Flight To First Delivery In Just Over A Year

Bombardier Monday announced its next-generation Challenger 605 widebody business jet (photo below) entered service in late January with Russell Aviation Leasing. Russell Aviation is leasing the aircraft to Bombardier which will use the aircraft as a demonstrator for 2007.

"This is a great occasion for Russell Aviation. The Challenger 605 jet is our fifth aircraft purchase from Bombardier and we look forward to keep strengthening our relationship with the manufacturer," said Jim Hausch, of Russell Aviation. "The aircraft looks fantastic. The cabin is very spacious and comfortable, and it flies like a dream. We're convinced this jet is a winner."

Bombardier says it's equipped the jet with all the bells and whistles including, according to the company, the widest stand-up cabin of any large-category business jet available today.

The first 605 uses Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics supporting real-time satellite graphical weather and electronic charts said to enhance situational awareness and reduce pilot workload.

Bombardier also claims the jet features a state-of-the-art Ethernet-based Cabin Electronic System including touch-screen controls at both the galley and the VIP location supporting optional high-speed connectivity for e-mailing and web browsing.

"We are excited to celebrate this milestone and look forward to demonstrating the Challenger 605 jet to our prospects and customers worldwide," said Jahid Fazal-Karim, senior vice-president, sales, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "This aircraft combines the proven platform and reliability of its predecessor, the Challenger 604 jet, with improved technology and enhanced comfort. The superior value proposition in the large business jet class just became better and now, our customers can experience it first hand."

The manufacturer completed the first flight last January and achieved certification by Transport Canada, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the European Aviation Safety Agency by October 2006.

Bombardier claims a maximum cruise speed of nearly 470 knots for the 605. Additionally, the company says a combination of new materials and technologies, together with the new lighter flight deck, makes the Challenger 605 200 pounds lighter than the Challenger 604 providing more payload flexibility -- including up to 12 passengers.

The list price for a typically equipped Challenger 605 aircraft is $26.7 million US.

FMI: www.bombardier.com