Challenger 605 Review: Performance, Luxury, and Versatility
The Bombardier Challenger 605 is a standout in the world of large-cabin business jets. Introduced in 2007 as the fourth generation of the iconic Challenger 600 series, the Challenger 605 offered several improvements over its predecessor, the Challenger 604. With the introduction of the Challenger 650 in 2015, the 605 was eventually phased out, but it remains a popular choice in the pre-owned market for those seeking a well-balanced combination of performance, luxury, and value.
Performance and Range
The Challenger 605 retains the powerful GE CF34-3B engines and range capabilities of its predecessor, ensuring reliability and impressive long-haul capabilities. With a range of up to 4,124 nautical miles when carrying four passengers, this jet is more than capable of covering significant distances with ease. When fully loaded with passengers, the Challenger 605 can still reach a maximum range of 3,756 nautical miles, making it ideal for non-stop flights between city pairs such as London to Montreal or Dubai to Beijing.
The Challenger 605 has a standard cruise speed of 459 knots, while its long-range cruise speed is 425 knots. Its payload capacity of 1,298 lbs (when fully fueled) provides ample flexibility for adjusting fuel loads, passengers, and cargo to meet various trip requirements.
Cabin Comfort and Luxury
One of the standout features of the Challenger 605 is its spacious and luxurious cabin. The aircraft’s cabin dimensions include a width of 8.17 feet, a height of 6.08 feet, and a length of 28.4 feet, providing a total cabin volume of 1,146 cubic feet. In terms of passenger capacity, the Challenger 605 can comfortably accommodate up to 10 passengers in an executive configuration, making it perfect for both business and leisure travel.
The cabin is also designed with enhanced natural lighting due to its larger windows, creating a more open and inviting atmosphere for passengers. Additionally, the jet offers 115 cubic feet of internal storage for luggage, providing ample space for both passengers and crew to stow their belongings.
Avionics and Cockpit Features
The Challenger 605 features Collins Aerospace Pro Line 21 avionics with electronic flight bag (EFB) capability, ensuring that pilots have access to the latest technology for navigation, flight planning, and real-time data. This advanced avionics system enhances the overall flight experience, making operations smoother and more efficient, especially for single-pilot operations.
Runway Performance
Despite its size and range, the Challenger 605 demonstrates impressive runway performance. With a balanced field length of just 5,950 feet and a landing distance of 4,629 feet, this aircraft is capable of operating from a variety of airports, including those with shorter runways. Its maximum take-off weight of 48,200 lbs provides it with the necessary lift and performance to handle a wide range of conditions and travel requirements.
Pricing and Market Factors
The price of a Bombardier Challenger 605 on the pre-owned market can vary significantly, depending on factors such as production year, flight hours, avionics upgrades, and time remaining before major maintenance events (like engine overhauls). The availability of in-flight connectivity and entertainment systems can also influence the price. As a result, prospective buyers should consider these factors to determine the right investment for their needs.
Takeaway
The Bombardier Challenger 605 is a highly capable and versatile large-cabin business jet that excels in long-range travel, cabin comfort, and advanced avionics. Its combination of performance, luxury, and efficiency makes it a standout choice for those seeking a well-rounded aircraft that can handle various operational needs. Competing with jets like the Dassault Falcon 2000LX, the Challenger 605 continues to be a top contender in the pre-owned jet market for those looking for a reliable, high-performance aircraft.
