The Challenger 604 executive jet is a versatile heavy jet that is highly sought after for long-range charter flights. Launched in 1995, it represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Challenger 601. Some of the key improvements include:
- Longer range
- Larger, more sophisticated cabin
- Advanced navigation system
The increase in range is due in part to improved engine design. A pair of General Electric CF34-3B turbofan engines powers the Challenger 604, giving it an intercontinental range of 4,027 nautical miles. It also features increased fuel carrying capacity, which further adds to its long-haul capabilities. Typical travel itineraries for a Challenger 604 executive jet include:
- New York to London
- Los Angeles to Miami
And while it may not be the fastest aircraft in its category, the 604 is capable of moderate speeds: High-cruise speed: 541 mph Standard cruise speed: 528 mph Long-range cruise speed: 489 mph The Challenger is also a decent climber for a heavy jet. It takes just 22 minutes to climb to 37,000 feet. It also requires a landing distance of just 2,777 feet. The maximum cruise altitude from this executive jet is 41,000, which allows it to:
- Fly above turbulent weather conditions
- Avoid the bulk of commercial air traffic
- Plan flights with greater flexibility
Class-leading Comfort and Space
But what really helps the Challenger 604 stand out among its class competitors is its spacious cabin. At the time of its launch, it boasted the widest body of any heavy jet. Even today, it offers one of the roomier cabin interiors of any executive jet in its class. The 604’s cabin dimensions measure:
- 28 feet long
- More than eight feet wide
- More than six feet high (great for taller travelers)
That spaciousness, combined with flight versatility and cost efficiency, is what made it one of the best-selling private jets in history. Over a 10-year production run from 1996-06, Bombardier rolled nearly 350 units out of its production facility. When configured for optimal comfort, the cabin of the Challenger 604 uses a double-club configuration for eight passengers. There is also an option for a forward club-half club-divan arrangement. A higher-density alternative allows for up to 19 passengers, but it comes at the cost of cabin comfort.
An Executive Jet Designed for the Long Haul
The designers at Bombardier understood that, in order to build a plane capable of long-range charter flights, it would need the cabin amenities to make those journeys manageable. They accommodated this through the inclusion of:
- Full-service galley
- Move-about cabin space
- Standup cabin room
- Full enclosed lavatory
- 115 cubic feet of cargo space
And like all members of the Challenger 600 series, the 604 is extremely quiet during all phases of flight. That’s because it features a passive noise insulation system that baffles engine noise and reduces vibration. The result is extremely low noise levels for a superior inflight experience, whether you’re conducting in-flight business or relaxing in total comfort. And just as clients like flying in these executive jets, pilots enjoy flying them. In addition to easy handling, it has a Rockwell Collins ProLine 4 avionics system, which includes pilot-friendly features such as:
- Autopilot systems
- High frequency radios
- Turbulence detection radar
- Digital interface communications system
