Challenger 650

The most successful large business jet platform of all time: over 1,000 Challenger 600-series deliveries, with the 650 as its latest and most refined form.
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Challenger 650 at a glance

Range
4,000
Max speed
Mach 0.85
Passengers
12
Service entry
2015

The Bombardier Challenger 650 flies 4,000 nautical miles nonstop, linking New York and London, and is the latest version of the widest-cabin large jet in continuous production since 1980, the Challenger 600 series, of which more than 1,000 have been delivered. The current model entered service in 2015.

The 650's General Electric CF34-3B engines and mature airframe make it one of the least expensive large-cabin jets to buy and operate, which is why it remains the backbone of charter and fractional fleets and a frequent choice for air-ambulance and government special-mission conversions, roles where cabin cross-section matters more than cutting-edge range.

Full specifications

Manufacturer
Bombardier
Segment
Large-cabin business jet
Range
4,000
Maximum operating speed
Mach 0.85
Engines
2 x GE CF34-3B
Cabin
Widest cabin in its class
Certification / entry into service
2015
Flight deck
Bombardier Vision (Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced)

Market position

The Challenger 650 competes on value rather than specification, sitting under the Falcon 2000LXS and well under the G500 on price while offering a wider cabin than either. As Bombardier looks to keep the line relevant, the aircraft's pitch is unchanged in a decade: the lowest cost per hour of any large-cabin jet, an argument that holds as long as the installed base keeps the support network dense.

Bombardier, the Montreal-based manufacturer that builds only business jets since selling its commercial aircraft and rail businesses, assembles the Global family in Toronto and completes interiors in Montreal.

Frequently asked questions

What is the range of the Challenger 650?

4,000 nautical miles with four passengers under NBAA IFR reserves, at speeds up to Mach 0.85.

How successful is the Challenger 600 series?

With more than 1,000 aircraft delivered since the Canadair Challenger 600 first flew in 1978, it is the best-selling large business jet platform in history.

What is the Challenger 650 used for besides private travel?

Its wide cabin and reliability make it a common choice for medevac, maritime patrol and government special-mission fleets worldwide.