Bombardier announced on Tuesday (14 September) that it was launching a new Challenger 3500 aircraft, the latest edition of its successful Challenger platform. The new Challenger 3500 aircraft introduces a redesigned interior with intelligent and sustainably minded cabin features crafted to combine comfort with function. Bombardier’s patented Nuage seat is included in the aircraft’s standard configuration. As part of an overall focus on passenger wellness, the new business jet will provide a reduced cabin altitude of 4,850 ft at 41,000 ft, representing a 31 percent improvement compared to its predecessor.
The Challenger 3500 aircraft also introduces several new features such as the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, the first wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class. In the cockpit, Bombardier introduces a standard-equipped autothrottle system to the Challenger 3500 flight deck, which offers the most baseline features in its class. This new business jet is expected to enter service in the second half of 2022.
“We are thrilled to launch a business jet that features all the best-selling elements of the Challenger platform – impressive performance, consistent reliability, exceptional smooth ride – while elevating the cabin experience for our customers,” said Éric Martel, president and CEO of Bombardier. “Building on the success of the unrivalled Global 7500 business jet cabin, the Challenger 3500 aircraft prioritises what our customers value most: a truly exceptional cabin experience.”
Bombardier is working with suppliers around the world, including FACC, which manufactures the cabinets and other key cabin components for the Challenger 3500 business jet such as the sidewalls, headliners, bulkheads and passenger service units.
The Challenger 3500 will seat up to 10 passengers and will list for US$26.7 million, the same price as the 350. Martel said the changes would help Bombardier keep Challenger as market leader in the super-midsized segment, which bridges small corporate planes and long-range aircraft that can seat 19. “We’re raising the bar in that category,” he said, adding that cabin features are key for Challenger customers. Martel told reporters at an in-person component of the launch event that a flight test for the Montreal-assembled Challenger 3500 would be done in Wichita, Kansas.
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