Bombardier Scores Challenger 605 Fleet Sale

0

Bombardier Aerospace said yesterday it took a firm order for three of its forthcoming Challenger 605 business jets, plus options for two more copies, from the same European operator, VistaJet, a premier business jet charter operation, financing and brokerage company. The company said it is the first and largest multiple aircraft order placed by a European company for the new jet. VistaJet, headquartered in Switzerland with an operations base in Salzburg, Austria, currently has 11 jets in operation or on order. The company will take delivery of its first new Challenger 605 aircraft in late 2007, shortly after the aircrafts scheduled entry into service. The list price for the typically equipped aircraft, excluding options, is approximately $81 million. VistaJet will also take delivery of one additional Global Express XRS ultra-long-range aircraft and two Challenger 604 business jets. This latest order further demonstrates VistaJets commitment to offer the newest fleet, coupled with the finest services to satisfy customers who demand the very best, said Bing Chen, chief executive officer, VistaJet. VistaJet currently operates two Bombardier Learjet 60 midsize jets, two Challenger 604 widebody aircraft and one ultra-long-range Global Express XRS business jet.

Launched in November 2005, the Challenger 605 features the widest stand-up cabin of any large business jet and operates at a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.82. The widebody bizjet is equipped with Rockwell Collins’ Pro Line 21 avionics suite, including real-time satellite weather imagery and electronic charts, and features a state-of-the-art Ethernet-based cabin electronic system. The type’s first flight took place on Jan. 22, 2006; as of July 14, the aircraft had accumulated over 185 flight hours during 53 flights. Certification by Transport Canada is expected in the fourth quarter of 2006 and the aircraft is scheduled to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2007.

LEAVE A REPLY