February 26, 2024
In addition to being the unnamed customer for 12 Challenger 3500s, NetJets has signed for 232 options valued at over $6 billion.
NetJets has agreed to a massive 232 options for Bombardier’s Challenger 3500, the manufacturer announced earlier this morning.
It followed similar deals by the world’s largest private jet operator with Embraer and Textron Aviation last year.
Together, the deals could bring nearly 2,000 new private jets to the subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.
Bombardier also confirmed that the 12 Challenger 3500s ordered by an unnamed customer in December are destined for NetJets.
Deliveries are slated to begin in the second half of 2025.
Private Jet Card Comparisons exclusively reported in February that NetJets was the customer for the order.
Bombardier said that order was valued at $326 million.
The option deal’s retail value would be over $6 billion if all options are exercised.
“The Challenger 3500 jet continues to impress with its ultimate combination of refined cabin experience, proven reliability, and top performance, perfectly aligning with the needs of NetJets’ discerning client base,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO of Bombardier.
He added, “We couldn’t be prouder to see the Challenger 3500 business jet join the NetJets’ fleet as we write the next chapter of our long-term collaboration.”
A spokesperson for NetJets said, “As we evaluate demand and overall growth within the market, we are confident the extension of our super-midsize fleet will continue to differentiate NetJets as the worldwide leader in private aviation.”
She continued, “Building on the popularity of the Bombardier Challenger 350, the Challenger 3500 will provide the reliability, performance, and experience our owners know and expect—all rooted in our foundation of safety and service. We look forward to adding to our already exceptional fleet in 2025.”
As of April, NetJets was flying 88 Challenger 350s.
According to Bombardier, over 900 of the Challenger 300 series are in service.
Last month, NetJets pilots voted to accept a revised agreement that will result in pay increases totaling over $1.6 billion through 2029.
Last year, Berkshire Hathaway Chairman Warren Buffett praised Johnson during its annual shareholders meeting.
This year’s meeting will again be broadcast live on CNBC this Saturday.
