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The Challenger 604: Key Features of Bombardier’s Premier Private Jet

Challenger 604

As an elite traveler seeking the finest in luxury and performance for your private aviation needs, you will be awed by the unparalleled capabilities of the Bombardier Challenger 604 business jet.

This state-of-the-art aircraft provides an unmatched combination of comfort, technology, reliability and speed to satisfy even the most discerning individuals and corporations.

With a range of over 4,000 nautical miles, the Challenger 604 can whisk you nonstop across continents in serene and elegant surroundings.

The Challenger 604: Bombardier’s Premier Midsize Jet

Superior Cabin Comfort

The Challenger 604 features an exceptionally spacious cabin, providing passengers with a comfortable travel experience. It has a cabin length of 28 feet and width of 8 feet, with standing headroom of over 6 feet.

This allows for custom seating configurations accommodating 9 to 12 passengers. The cabin is equipped with amenities such as video monitors, surround sound, full galley, enclosed lavatory and generous baggage capacity.

Powerful Performance

The Challenger 604 is powered by two General Electric CF34-3B engines, enabling a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.82 (541 mph) and range of over 4,000 nautical miles. This performance allows for intercontinental travel and access to challenging airfields. The aircraft has a maximum payload of 4,900 lbs and can carry 12 medium suitcases.

Proven and Reliable

Based on the successful Challenger 601 design, the 604 model has been continually improved and refined over 25 years. It features advanced Collins ProLine 4 avionics and benefits from its legacy of dependability and low operating costs.

Over 300 Challenger 604s were produced between 1995 to 2006, cementing its position as Bombardier’s most successful midsize business jet.

Versatile Mission Profile

The Challenger 604’s combination of long range, large cabin and midsize profile allows it to fulfill a wide range of private aviation needs. It is well suited for business travel, leisure charters, cargo operations and medical evacuations.

The aircraft can access most airports and has the capability to fly internationally. This versatility and proven track record has made the Bombardier Challenger 604 a popular choice for private charter and ownership.

Specs and Performance of the Challenger 604 Private Jet

The Challenger 604 is a highly capable aircraft with impressive performance specifications that make it ideal for long-range travel. Its twin General Electric CF34 engines produce 8,729 pounds of thrust each, allowing for a maximum cruise speed of 468 knots and a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet.

Range and Fuel Efficiency

The Challenger 604 has an impressive maximum range of over 4,000 nautical miles, allowing nonstop transcontinental and transatlantic flights. With a full fuel load of 19,850 pounds and at an economical cruise speed, the aircraft can fly up to 4,623 miles without refueling. Its fuel burn rate is 350 gallons per hour, enabling efficient long-distance travel.

Cabin and Payload Capacity

The Challenger 604 has a spacious cabin measuring over 28 feet in length and 8 feet in width, with a total volume of 1,150 cubic feet. It can seat up to 12 passengers in a standard configuration, with additional options to reconfigure the seating for up to 16 passengers.

The aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of 4,815 pounds and a baggage compartment volume of 115 cubic feet, ideal for both personal and business travel needs.

Takeoff and Landing Performance

The Challenger 604 is designed for use at a wide range of airports. It has a balanced field length of 5,765 feet and can take off from runways as short as 5,840 feet at sea level. Its impressive climb rate of 4,345 feet per minute allows it to quickly reach higher altitudes. The aircraft only requires 2,358 feet to land from 50 feet above ground level, enabling use of shorter runways.

With its combination of range, speed, payload capacity and operational flexibility, the Challenger 604 is a premier aircraft well-suited for long-distance business and leisure travel worldwide. Its high performance and spacious, customizable cabin provide an unparalleled private jet experience for discerning travelers.

Cabin Comfort and Amenities on the Challenger 604

Challenger 604 5469 Cabin 2

Spacious and Luxurious Cabin

The Challenger 604 features an exceptionally spacious cabin, providing comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers. The cabin measures over 42 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet high, allowing passengers ample personal space and freedom of movement.

The interior is appointed in the finest materials, including leather seats, wood trim accents, and wool carpeting.

State-of-the-Art Entertainment System

To enhance the flight experience, the Challenger 604 comes equipped with an advanced entertainment system. Each seat has access to a 10-inch retractable LCD screen, where passengers can watch live satellite television, movies, and play video games.

There are also individual media boxes at each seat with audio and video on-demand, as well as iPod and MP3 connectivity. For convenience, AC power outlets and USB charging ports are available at each seat.

Fully Equipped Lavatory and Galley

The Challenger 604’s private lavatory provides a vacuum toilet, vanity with storage, mirrored medicine cabinet, and optional sink.

The fully equipped galley includes an oven, microwave, coffeemaker, sink, ice drawer, trash compactor, and ample storage space for catering hot and cold meals during long flights. For extra comfort on overnight flights, the two divans can convert into beds.

Unparalleled Safety

Passenger safety is Bombardier’s top priority. The Challenger 604 comes with a state-of-the-art flight deck and the latest safety technologies, including the Bombardier Vision Flight Deck with four large LCD displays, a Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), and windshear detection.

The aircraft also meets the latest FAA and EASA safety standards. These advanced safety features provide peace of mind for a smooth and enjoyable flight on the Challenger 604.

Key Technology Features of the Challenger 604

Collins Pro Line 4 Avionics Suite

The Challenger 604 is equipped with a sophisticated Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite displayed across six LCD screens in the cockpit. This integrated system provides pilots with critical flight information including electronic flight instruments, dual flight management systems, and a dual-channel autopilot.

The Pro Line 4 suite offers 55% less screen area than the Pro Line system in the Challenger 605, but still provides pilots with essential data for safe and efficient operation of the aircraft.

Powerful Engines

Twin General Electric CF34-3B turbofan jet engines provide 8,729 pounds of thrust each, enabling the Challenger 604 to reach a maximum cruise speed of 538 miles per hour and a range of up to 3,800 nautical miles. The engines are designed to reduce noise and emissions, increasing the environmental performance of the aircraft.

Advanced Flight Controls

The Challenger 604 features a fully integrated digital flight control system including an autopilot, flight director, and yaw damper. The system automates control of the ailerons, elevators, rudder, spoilers and other control surfaces to assist pilots during flight operations.

The autopilot can automatically control the aircraft’s lateral and vertical navigation, including altitude changes, turns, and descents. This advanced system reduces pilot workload and enhances safety.

Robust Electrical System

The Challenger 604 is equipped with a robust electrical system including two 30 kVA generators, four transformer rectifiers, and primary and secondary batteries. The generators supply 115/200V AC three-phase power for aircraft systems.

The DC power supply comes from the transformer rectifiers and batteries. An auxiliary power unit provides power for engine starting, air conditioning, and other critical systems while the aircraft is on the ground. The electrical system is designed to be highly reliable to support essential aircraft functions.

The technology features of the Challenger 604, including its Collins Pro Line 4 avionics, powerful engines, advanced flight controls, and robust electrical systems, provide enhanced safety, efficiency and reliability for private jet operations. These sophisticated systems demonstrate why the Challenger 604 was a premier midsize business jet for over a decade.

Operating Costs and Ownership Considerations

Challenger 604 5469 Exterior

Acquisition Cost

The Challenger 604 has a list price starting at $27 million, though most sell for between $10 to $20 million depending on the aircraft’s age, total hours, and overall condition. While a sizeable upfront investment, the Challenger 604 holds its value well due to its reputation for performance, reliability and comfort.

Fuel Costs

The Challenger 604 is powered by twin Honeywell TFE731-5BR engines that provide impressive performance and range while maximizing fuel efficiency. At typical cruise speeds, the Challenger 604 burns around 500 gallons of jet fuel per hour.

Fuel costs can range from $3 to $5 per gallon depending on global oil prices and location. Proper pre-flight planning to optimize altitude and speed can help reduce fuel burn and costs.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance for a Challenger 604 typically costs between $500,000 to $750,000 per year to cover items like engine overhauls, part replacements, inspections, and software upgrades. The airframe and engines are designed to have a 20,000 to 30,000 hour lifespan, allowing most Challenger 604s to remain in service for 20 to 25 years before major overhauls are required. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring safety, reliability and to maximize the aircraft’s resale value.

Crew and Training

A typical flight crew for a Challenger 604 includes two pilots and a flight attendant. Pilot salaries range from $150,000 to $250,000 per year. Flight attendants earn $35,000 to $55,000. Ongoing training for pilots and crew is required to maintain certifications and stay up-to-date with technological enhancements, adding $20,000 to $50,000 in annual costs.

While operating and maintaining a Challenger 604 is an expensive endeavor, for many private and business aviation clients, the productivity, flexibility and prestige the aircraft provides makes the investment worthwhile. With proper care and maintenance, a Challenger 604 can provide many years of safe, luxurious and reliable private air travel.

FAQs About the Challenger 604 Private Jet

How fast can the Challenger 604 fly?

The Challenger 604 business jet is capable of flying at a maximum speed of Mach 0.86, which equates to 670 miles per hour. Its twin General Electric CF34-3B engines provide a combined thrust of 17,458 pounds, allowing the aircraft to cruise at altitudes up to 41,000 feet.

What is the range of the Challenger 604?

The Challenger 604 has an impressive maximum range of 4,017 nautical miles, allowing nonstop transcontinental and transatlantic flights. With a full payload, the range reduces slightly to 3,810 nautical miles. The jet can also travel 2,925 nautical miles with its maximum payload.

How much does it cost to operate the Challenger 604?

Operating costs for the Challenger 604 depend on factors like age, usage, and location of the aircraft. On average, fixed costs amount to around $850,000 per year which includes expenses like crew salaries, hangar fees, and insurance.

Fuel costs vary depending on routes flown but average around $7 per gallon. Maintenance and engine overhauls typically cost between $250,000 to $500,000 per year. Overall, budget at least $2 million annually to operate a Challenger 604.

How comfortable is the cabin?

The Challenger 604 features an executive cabin 28 feet 3 inches long, 6 feet 3 inches high, and 7 feet 10 inches wide. This spacious interior can be configured to seat up to 12 passengers comfortably in a variety of layouts including club seating, conference tables, and berthable divans.

A fully enclosed lavatory provides privacy, while the galley offers refreshments on long flights. The aircraft also has ample storage for baggage and equipment.

How customized can the Challenger 604 become?

The Challenger 604’s cabin can be highly customized to suit specific tastes and needs. Options include wood grain or stone finishes, leather or fabric upholstery, entertainment systems, and office equipment.

The galley can also be upgraded with premium appliances, while the lavatory may be outfitted with marble countertops and designer faucets. Exterior paint schemes and cabin seating configurations allow for personalization to create a one-of-a-kind executive airliner.

Conclusion

As we have explored, the Challenger 604 offers an unparalleled experience for discerning private jet customers. With its spacious and luxurious cabin, cutting-edge avionics and smooth ride capabilities, this aircraft sets the benchmark for midsize jets.

While the price tag is substantial, owners gain access to a global transportation solution tailored to their most demanding requirements. Ultimately, it is the Challenger 604’s blend of comfort, performance and renowned Bombardier craftsmanship that cements its reputation as a premier private jet.

When you step aboard a Challenger 604, you enter a world-class private flying experience second to none.

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