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.