Photo : Matthieu Sontag, Licence CC-BY-SA.

Bombardier

Canadair developed the Challenger business jet series after a Bill Lear concept, making its first voyage in 1980. But it wasn’t commercially produced until 1986 when Bombardier acquired Canadair to avoid bankruptcy. This acquisition was instrumental in Bombardier’s entry into the aerospace industry – especially in corporate aviation. 

By the 1980s, Bombardier established itself as a major player in aviation with the development of the CRJ regional jets and the C Series, launched in 2008. The introduction of these aircraft reshaped the commercial aviation landscape moving forward.

Over the years, Bombardier has expanded its series of aircraft and offerings through strategic acquisitions and continuous innovation. The company is known not only for its aircraft but also for its high-performance rail solutions, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and technology. Through it all, Bombardier remains focused on driving progress and exceeding customer expectations in both the aerospace and rail sectors.

Paving A Way For The Bombardier Challenger 605

The Bombardier Challenger 600 series began as the LearStar 600 concept in 1975 before Canadair acquired the project in 1976. Renamed the Challenger 600 in 1977, it introduced a T-tail and supercritical wing. The prototype flew in 1978, and subsequent variants improved avionics, systems, and performance. The CL-601 replaced Lycoming ALF 502 engines with General Electric CF34s and added winglets, first flying in 1982.

Bombardier acquired Canadair in 1986, expanding the Challenger series, which later influenced the CRJ regional airliner and Global Express. The Challenger 605, certified in 2006, featured larger cabin windows, a redesigned tail cone, and Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. The 605 and 650 refined cabin design and avionics while maintaining similar performance to the 604. With over 1,066 units built by 2018, the Challenger series remains a leader in corporate aviation, valued for its range, comfort, and reliability.

  • Country of Origin: Canada

Bombardier Challenger 605 Statistics

  • Maximum Speed: 488 kts
  • Maximum Range: 4,123 nm
  • Maximum Occupants: 14
  • Range of Years Manufactured: 2007-2015
  • Total Aircraft Build: 290
  • Current Operational Aircraft: 287
  • Useful Load: 4,850 lbs
  • Average Sale Value: $11,427,857
  • Average Days On Market For Sale: 261
  • VREF Demand Rating: VREF Online

Operational Resources

Operations Manual

Maintenance Document

Local Resources

Manufacturer

Insurance

Bombardier Challenger Details

Interior

The Challenger 605 is a business jet that seats up to 14 passengers, including a jump seat and it features a modern layout with track and swivel seats. Its interior features carpeting and hard flooring in the galley. Small appliances include a microwave oven, coffee maker, and 21-inch cabin monitors. Onboard Wi-Fi keeps passengers connected at all times, making the 605 ideal for business or personal travel.

Exterior

The Bombardier Challenger 605 features a sleek, swept-wing design with attached winglets made of Kevlar to reduce drag. This aircraft has a polished all-metal airframe and is powered by 2 General Electric CF34-3B engines. Winglets are designed to reduce drag with higher-positioned cabin windows and a redesigned tail cone for enhanced aesthetic and aerodynamic efficiency.

Avionics

  • ATC Transponder/ADS-B OUT V2 Capability
  • 3D Map & Long Range Cruise
  • TAWS & RAAS Terrain & Runway Awareness & Advisory System
  • Lightning Detection System
  • Universal Graphical Weather On Multifunction Display (MFD)
  • 3rd Inertial Reference System
  • 2nd Radio Altimeter
  • SATCOM System for Iridium
  • Link 2000+ Datalink System
  • FANS 1/A over Iridium
  • Low-Temperature Ground Wing Anti-Ice System (TOSE)

Specifications

  • Configuration: Twin Engine, Fanjet Engine
  • Max Seats: 14
  • Max Takeoff Weight: 48,200 lbs.
  • Cruise Normal: 459 kts
  • Range: 3,732 nm
  • Takeoff Distance: 5,840 ft.
  • Landing Distance: 2,777 ft.
  • Wing Span: 64 ft. 4 in.
  • Length: 68 ft. 6 in.
  • Height: 20 ft. 9 in.

Bombardier Challenger Models

CL-600

First certified in 1980, the CL-600 was the first production model in the Bombardier Challenger series. It was powered by 2 Lycoming ALF 502L turbofan engines, specifically designed for the Challenger series. Bombardier released the CL-601 only 2 years later when only 10 CL-600s were produced.

CL-600S

With a slight upgrade from its predecessor, the 600S featured winglets to enhance its aerodynamic efficiency. Only 3 were built.

Canadair CC-144, CE-144, & CX-144

The Royal Canadian Air Force purchased and utilized different variants of the Challenger series from 1982 to 2020. Although they had slight variations between the models, they were used to transport government officials and foreign dignitaries. Some of the models were equipped for emergency medical evacuations, aiding numerous humanitarian and diplomatic missions. This series held multiple designations, including the CC-144A, CE-144A, CP-144A, and CX-144A.

CL-601-1A/ER

This model features refined winglets for reduced drag and powerful General Electric CF34-1A turbofans. The AER variant is simply a 601-1A with an extra fuel tank located in the tail. 

CL-601-3A/ER

First marketed by Bombardier, the CL-601-3A is manufactured with General Electric CF34-3A turbofans and a modernized glass cockpit. Like the CL-601-1AER, the CL-601-3AER includes an extra fuel tank in the tail. This addition further enhances the range and performance of the aircraft. 

CL-601-3R

The Bombardier CL601-3R is a super-midsize jet with 59 units produced from 1993 to 1996. This twin-engine business aircraft delivers an impressive range of 3,380 nm while featuring a spacious cabin typically arranged in a dual-zone configuration. Standard layouts for the 601-3R accommodate 9 passengers. However, the platform supports up to 12 occupants when needed. The CL601-3R continues to maintain a respectable market presence despite its limited production numbers.

CL-604

The Bombardier Challenger 604 is a business jet with exceptional reliability – a 99% dispatch rate. Introduced in 1995, this aircraft features GE CF34-3B engines with a 4,024 nautical mile range, advanced avionics, and a spacious cabin accommodating up to 19 passengers. Production ended in 2005 with 363 still in operation.

CL-604 MMA

The 604 MMA (Multi-Mission Aircraft) is a militarized variant developed by Field Aviation for Danish service in 2004. Used for maritime patrol and search and rescue operations, this aircraft seats 2 total crew and is designed to land on short, rugged, gravel airstrips typically found in Arctic regions.

C-143A

Serving the US Coast Guard in 2005, the Bombardier C-143A is a Challenger CL-604 aircraft acquired for Medium Range Command and Control Aircraft (MRC2A) to support the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Commandant of the US Coast Guard. This aircraft is powered by 2 GE Aviation CF34 turbofans with a speed of Mach 0.83 and a range of 3,915 miles. Its spacious cabin features low noise levels, a full-service galley, large leather seating, in-flight baggage access, and a private lavatory. The C-143A designation revived the pre-1962 USAF C-series numbering before its lease concluded in 2011.

CL-605

Introduced in 2006, the 605 is a further developed version of the 604. It prioritized performance and comfort with its lower weight, higher thrust, larger cabin windows, and new tail cone. Additionally, it has 55% more display space with the upgrade to the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics system. Production ended only 10 years later in 2016. 

CL-605 MSA

The military saw value in the updated 605, so they adapted it for military use as a Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA). This aircraft was used in anti-piracy, coastal security, border security, and long-range search and rescue missions. 

Challenger 650

As Bombardier transitioned away from the 605, they certified and introduced the 650 in 2015. This aircraft became a best-selling large business jet, boasting its luxuriousness and technical capabilities. Even with its comfort, technology, and efficiency, the 650 offers one of the lowest direct operating costs in its category – especially if owners/operators utilize an affordable maintenance program. 

Top Bombardier Challenger Questions

The following includes top questions about the Bombardier Challenger 605 series.

What Are The Key Differences Between The Bombardier Challenger 605 & 604 Variant?

The Challenger 605 builds on the success of the 604 with upgrades including the addition of a Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, featuring larger 15-inch displays for improved situational awareness. The cabin was also redesigned, offering 30% larger windows and an updated galley for a more functional layout. Externally, the rounded tailcone also sets it apart from its predecessor.

How Much Would Insurance Cost For A Bombardier Challenger 605?

The annual insurance cost for a Challenger 605 varies based on factors such as pilot experience, coverage limits, and usage (private versus charter). Typically, hull and liability insurance can range from $50,000 to $200,000 per year.

How Many People Can A Bombardier 605 Challenger Fit?

The Challenger 605 typically accommodates 10 to 12 passengers, depending on the interior configuration. Some layouts may allow for a maximum of 19 passengers.

How Much Does A Bombardier Challenger 605 Cost?

When new, the Challenger 605 had a list price of around $27 million. Today, pre-owned models typically sell between $8 million and $13 million, depending on factors like age, condition, and upgrades.

How Much Is A 2017 Bombardier Challenger 605?

Bombardier discontinued the Challenger 605 in 2016, replacing it with the Challenger 650. However, if a 2017 model exists (likely delivered late from prior orders), it would generally be valued at $10 million to $15 million, depending on its condition and upgrades.

What Is Kevlar & How Is It Used In Aviation?

Kevlar is a type of aramid fiber that’s woven into textile materials and is extremely strong and lightweight with resistance to corrosion and heat. In aviation, Kevlar is used for aircraft exteriors. Kevlar is also used for body armor, bulletproof vests, car brakes, and boats.

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