The Challenger super-midsize series is featured by all five of the largest U.S. charter and fractional private jet operators and more.
Bombardier delivered its 200th Challenger 3500 jet.
The supermidsize jet went to Piero Ferrari.
The new owner is the vice chairman of Ferrari.
The aircraft will support Ferrari’s travel to Formula One races and other business engagements, according to Bombardier, which made the announcement.
Executive Vice President David Murray said, “Delivering the 200th Challenger 3500 jet is a defining milestone for Bombardier and a powerful testament to the aircraft’s remarkable success in the super-midsize segment.”
He added, “This achievement speaks to the exceptional dedication of our employees, the confidence our customers continue to place in Bombardier, and the strength of an aircraft that delivers outstanding performance, impressive efficiency, and an elevated cabin experience.”
The first full year of deliveries for the Challenger 3500 was 2023.
Murray said, “The Challenger 3500 jet has quickly established itself as a category leader, and we look forward to building on that momentum.”
It succeeded the Challenger 350 and, before that, the Challenger 300.
The various iterations have become a core for large fractional and jet card providers.
The world’s largest private jet operator, NetJets, currently operates 94 aircraft.
Number two, Flexjet uses the Bombardier Super Midsize.
Vista Global, the third-largest charter/fractional operator, has been a longtime user.
Earlier this year, it placed a firm order for 40 Challenger 3500 with options for up to 120 more for its VistaJet unit.
Both Wheels Up and FlyExclusive, ranked fourth and fifth based on fractional and charter flight hours, have chosen the Challenger for their super midsize fleets.
Airshare, Baker Aviation, and Nicholas Air, ranked 9th, 10th, and 11th, respectively, each feature the Bombardier jet.
Start-up Bond has selected the Challenger 3500 as its exclusive super-midsize jet.
Other operators, such as Northern Jet and AB Jets, are also building their super-midsize fleets using the Bombardier jet.
FXAir and Magellan Jet each offer dedicated Challenger 300 jet cards.
Amstat shows there are currently 447 Challenger 300s and 429 Challenger 350s in service.