After Missing Out On Canadian Tender, a $326 Million Order Raises Spirits

Bombardier announced the firm reception of a 12-aircraft order from an unnamed mystery client, adding up to $326.4 million at list price.

The order will see the delivery of a dozen Challenger 3500 aircraft beginning in the latter half of 2025, apparently outfitted as regular Bombardier planes. The client reportedly chose the Challenger 3500 for its "outstanding performance, refined cabin and sustainably minded features", at least they did according to Bombardier's PR department. The announcement is a large order with no mention of any special equipment packages, precluding the possibility that the client is a governmental customer looking for some special mission aircraft. It comes at a great time for Bombardier, who's still smarting after missing out on their Canadian tender to replace the P-8 Poseidon with their Multi-Mission maritime aircraft.

“Bombardier is proud that the Challenger 3500 jet sparks such confidence as the aircraft of choice for a vast majority of operators around the world, and continues to meet and exceed the expectations of its discerning clientele,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO, Bombardier. “The Challenger 3500 jet is truly a force to be reckoned with, and this order is a clear demonstration that this platform offers the exceptional experience that clients are seeking.”

The Challenger 3500 has all the usual luxury appointments needed to compete in the private bizjet class, but Bombardier kicked up their ecological bonafides with an “Environmental Product Declaration”, a document that surveys the plane’s lifetime impact throughout its entire lifecycle. While it’s a bit of a gee-whiz paper for the average hypothetical buyer, the private jet industry is keenly aware of how important their image is in a world increasingly hostile to conspicuous consumption - every little bit of eco-friendliness helps.

FMI: www.bombardier.com