Bombardier Challenger 604

Bombardier

Introduced in 1995, the Bombardier Challenger 604 is part of an aircraft legacy that began with the Canadair Challenger 600 series. Challenger 600 is a line of business jets that first flew in 1980. Canadair, a company known for its expertise in aerospace, originally developed the Challenger 600 as a revolutionary new aircraft that combined the comfort of a large cabin with the efficiency of a midsize jet. The Challenger 600 quickly became popular for corporate aviation, thanks to its spacious interior and advanced avionics.

In 1986, Bombardier, under the leadership of Laurent Beaudoin, acquired Canadair, marking the company’s major entry into the aerospace sector. Building on Canadair’s success, Bombardier made significant upgrades to the Challenger platform, including introducing the Challenger 601 and later, the 604. The 604, launched in 1995, was a significant leap forward as it incorporated more powerful GE CF34 engines for greater range and efficiency. It also offered an even larger, more luxurious cabin. With the ability to carry up to 21 passengers (including the crew), the 604 became one of the most popular and dependable business jets.

The Challenger 604’s impressive range – capable of flying just over 4,000 nautical miles – enabled non-stop flights between major cities like New York and London. This made it a preferred choice for corporate executives and private owners. Additionally, its reputation for reliability and smooth handling ensured its position as one of the top business jets of its era.

Today, the Challenger 604 remains a testament to Bombardier’s commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation. Through continuous enhancements to both performance and luxury, the Challenger family of aircraft has become synonymous with high-quality business travel, and the 604 holds a special place in the hearts of those who value long-range performance and unparalleled comfort.

Taking The Bombardier Challenger 604 Beyond The Commercial Market

With Bombardier’s participation in defense and military operations, they have manufactured several variations of the 604. Primarily international military entities have used this specific aircraft. However, the United States Coast Guard has used the 604 as a medium-range command and control aircraft.

Country of Origin: Canada

Bombardier Challenger 604 Statistics

Maximum Speed: 488 kts
Maximum Range: 4,027 nm
Maximum Occupants: 21
Range Of Years Manufactured: 1996-2007
Total Aircraft Build: 1,066
Current Operational Aircraft: 363
Useful Load: 4,815 lbs
Average Sale Value: $11,888,840
Average Days On Market For Sale: 270
VREF Demand Rating: Join VREF

Operational Resources

Insurance

Bombardier Challenger Details

Interior

The Challenger 604 accommodates 12 passengers, including a four-place forward club and a spacious AFT lavatory. Entertainment options include an Airshow 4000 system, dual DVD players, and monitors for enhanced passenger experience.

Exterior

The Challenger 604 is a business jet equipped with GE CF34-3B engines and a T-tail. The 604 features a sleek, elongated fuselage with elegant color schemes, large oval windows, and winglets for improved efficiency. Its rear-mounted engines contribute to a clean design, making it a preferred choice for business travel.

Avionics

Air Data Computers: Dual Collins ADC-850E
Cockpit Displays: 6 Collins EFD-4077
Cockpit Voice Recorder: L3Harris FA2100 CVR
Communications: Three Collins VHF-422C COMMS with 8.33 Khz Spacing / FM Immunity
Distance Measuring Equipment: Dual Collins DME-442 Transceivers
Flight Data Recorder: L3Harris F1000 FDR
Flight Management System: Dual Collins FMC-6000 Computers
Global Positioning System: Dual Collins GPS-4000 Global Positioning System
High Frequency: Dual Collins HF-9031A Transceivers
Inertial Reference System: Triple Litton LTN-101
Navigation: Dual Collins VIR-432 NAVS
Terrain Awareness System: Honeywell EGPWS MKV
Traffic Collision Alert Avoidance System: Collins TCAS Processor TTR-921
Transponders: Dual Collins TDR-94D Mode S
Weather Radar: Collins TWR-850 with Turbulence and Lightning Detection

Specifications

Configuration: Twin Engine, Fanjet Engine
Max Seats: 21
Max Take-Off Weight: 48,200 lbs
Cruise Normal: 470 kts
Range: 4,027 nm
Take-Off Distance: 5,840 ft
Landing Distance: 3,833 ft
Wing Span: 64 ft 3 in
Length: 68 ft 3 in
Height: 20 ft 7 in

Bombardier Challenger Models

CL-600

The Bombardier Challenger 604, introduced in 1995, quickly became the best-selling model in the Challenger series until production ended in 2006. This super mid-sized aircraft boasts a maximum cruising speed of Mach 0.82 and a remarkable range of up to 4,027 nautical miles, making it ideal for long-distance travel.

CL-600S

The CL-600-1A11 Challenger 600S is an upgraded version of the original Challenger 600, most notably featuring winglets that enhance its aerodynamic efficiency and distinguish it from its predecessor. These winglets provide a visual cue that sets the 600S apart. This aircraft combines improved performance with the classic design elements of the Challenger series.

Canadair CC-144

In Canadian military service, the Challenger 601 is designated as the CC-144B, showcasing its versatility and recognition in both civilian and military aviation. This design contrasts with the previous Lycoming engines and is complemented by a distinctive blunt tail cone.

Canadair CE-144

The CC-144 Challenger is utilized by the Royal Canadian Air Force to transport government officials and foreign dignitaries, swiftly delivering passengers almost anywhere while supporting military operations in Canada and globally. Some Challengers are equipped for emergency medical evacuations and have successfully aided in numerous humanitarian and diplomatic missions.

Canadair CX-144

The Challenger CX-144 is part of the Canadian Forces Challenger 600s with all designations including CC-144A, CE-144A, CP-144A, and CX-144A.

CL-601-1A/ER

The Bombardier CL-601-1A features refined winglets for reduced drag and powerful General Electric CF34-1A turbofans, with a total of 66 units built, including six designated as CC-144Bs for the Canadian Forces. The CL-601-1AER variant is a 601-1A with an additional fuel tank in the tail.

CL-601-3A/ER

The CL-601-3A variant features General Electric CF34-3A turbofans with a higher flat rating and a modern glass cockpit. This model was the first marketed by Bombardier. The CL-601-3AER variant includes an additional fuel tank in the tail, enhancing its range and performance capabilities.

CL-601-3R

The Bombardier CL-601-3R is a versatile business jet known for its spacious cabin and advanced avionics. With a maximum range of approximately 3,500 nautical miles, it is powered by two General Electric CF34-3B engines, enabling efficient long-distance travel. Accommodating up to 8 passengers, this aircraft features a well-equipped galley and lavatory, making it ideal for corporate and personal use.

CL-604

Equipped with General Electric CF34-3B turbofan engines, the aircraft features added saddle tanks for enhanced fuel capacity, a new undercarriage to support higher takeoff and landing weights, structural improvements to the wings and tail, and a modern Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics system.

CL-604 MMA

604 MMA (Multi-Mission Aircraft) is a militarized variant developed by Field Aviation for Danish service. Used for maritime patrol and search and rescue operations, this aircraft is designed to land on the short, rugged, gravel airstrips typical in Arctic regions.

C-143A

The Bombardier C-143A is a Challenger CL-604 aircraft acquired by the US Coast Guard in 2005 as its Medium Range Command and Control Aircraft (MRC2A), supporting the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Commandant of the US Coast Guard. With a maximum takeoff weight of 40,125 lb, it is powered by two GE Aviation CF34 turbofans, each providing 9,140 lb thrust. The C-143A boasts a speed of Mach 0.83, a range of 3,915 miles, and a ceiling of 45,000 ft. Its spacious cabin features low noise levels, a full-service galley, large leather seating, in-flight baggage access, and a private lavatory.

CL-605

This mid-size business jet was introduced in 2006 as the further development of the 604. Designed with a lower weight and higher thrust than its previous models, it also has larger cabin windows and a new tail cone. With the equipment of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics system, this aircraft has 55% more display space. The Bombardier Challenger 605 was designed to offer a more luxurious experience with better-positioned windows, an upgraded galley design, a redesigned cabin, and upgraded avionics. Production for CL-605 ended in 2016.

CL-605 MSA

Adapted for military use, the 605 became a Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA). It tackled missions regarding anti-piracy, coastal and border security, and long-range search and rescue.

Challenger 650

Certified and introduced in 2015, the Challenger 650 is boasted as the best-selling large business jet platform with luxury and technology at the forefront. This includes wide sleeping capacity, Ka-band high-speed internet, and superior fuel efficiency. Through affordable maintenance programs, the 650 also has the lowest direct operating cost in its category.

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Bombardier Challenger 604

Taking The Bombardier Challenger 604 Beyond The Commercial Market

Bombardier Challenger 604 Statistics