Bombardier on Tuesday its new super mid-size business jet, the Challenger 3500. It is actually a redesign of the Challenger 350, launched in 2014, which now includes some features seen in its competitors as the auto-throttle.
Expected to enter service in the second half of 2022, the Challenger 3500 has the same dimensions and characteristics as its predecessor, but offers a greater range of 3,400 nautical miles.
Instead of focusing on performance itself, the Canadian manufacturer chose to equip the new business jet with a more comfortable and modern passenger cabin, in addition to improving the pressurization system to reduce cabin altitude.
According to Bombardier, the new business jet will provide a reduced cabin altitude of 4,850 ft at 41,000 ft, which is a 31% improvement over its predecessor.
The Challenger 3500 will also offer differentials such as voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, wireless chargers and 24-inch monitors with 4K resolution.
“We are excited to launch an executive jet that features all of the best-selling elements of the “We are thrilled to launch a business jet that features all the best-selling elements of the Challenger platform – impressive performance, consistent reliability, exceptional smooth ride – while elevating the cabin experience for our customers,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier.
The company also highlighted the sustainable nature of the aircraft, which will be the second to obtain an EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certificate, which guarantees transparency in the goals of reducing pollutant emissions – the first jet was the Global 7500 in 2020.
Reduced aeronautical division
With the replacement of the Challenger 350 and the end of Learjet production, the Challenger 3500 will be Bombardier’s most affordable business jet, which reflects the shrinkage of the company’s aeronautical division.
A rival to the Praetor 600 and Gulfstream 280 aircraft, the Challenger will really need a big effort for the company to maintain the only aviation division left after selling CRJ and C Series regional aircraft and De Havilland Canada models.
