Challenger 605 | Article

Challenger 605

Bombardier’s Challenger series, perhaps its most successful line, has only become better with experience.  Because the original Challenger was so successful, Bombardier continues to use its general design while incorporating up-to-date technology and improvements on well-received components.  It would be a challenge, pun intended, to fill the shoes of the Challenger 604, the “best-selling model in the heavy-iron category.”  However, the Challenger 605 maintains every praised feature of its predecessor, adding freedom, innovation and performance capabilities.  It’s no wonder that this $27 million long-range business jet is a valuable asset to corporate clients.

For good reason, Bombardier chose to preserve the spacious “Challenger” cabin that has accommodated business travelers for years.  In a combination of club, divan and individual seating, the Challenger 605 typically carries 10-12 passengers (with room for up to 19).  Cabin measurements are 6.1 feet tall, over 7 feet wide and 28.3 feet long, almost necessary for long-duration flights.  However, it has been completely restyled to reflect customers’ every desire.  Larger and higher-positioned windows make for ideal viewing pleasure.  It has an improved Ethernet-based management system, larger video monitors, an upgraded galley area, sturdier worktables and more LED lighting.  Overall, the Challenger 605’s cabin offers more in every respect.

Another area of substantial improvement is in the Challenger 605’s avionics.  Its predecessor’s avionics system was so successful that such significant improvements were inconceivable.  To enhance performance and efficiency, Bombardier chose to do away with the 604’s Pro Line 4 system, and instead equip the aircraft with the more advanced Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 suite.  Some noticeable changes are the four-screen display system, offering 55 percent more area, and an improved pilot interface.  The new avionics system features CNS radios, Honeywell Laseref V IRSes, better DADCs, fewer control panels, and less weight overall.

The Challenger 605 also performs well due in large part to its two General Electric CF34-3B engines, producing 8,729 lbs of thrust apiece.  Equipped with the same wings and engines, the long-range business jet performs similarly to the 604.  It can travel over 4,000 nautical miles at a mach .80 maximum.  Its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) is 48,200 lbs.  However, the Challenger 605 also boasts better numbers in a few key areas.  Its payload of 5,015 lbs increased 200 lbs from its predecessor.  Thanks to design modifications, newly located fuel tanks, one aft bladder tank and an enlarged tailcone tank, provide better weight distribution and fuel economy.  Also, Bombardier designed the aircraft for fast in-and-out removal for maintenance.

Following five generations of Challenger success, Bombardier somehow manages to make great even better.  Customers’ comments and suggestions were at the forefront of the Challenger 605’s design, to create the ultimate private jet experience.  The Challenger 605 is the perfect combination of timeless machinery and innovative technologies.