Bombardier Challenger 600 / 601

“A classic large-cabin jet that redefined private aviation, the Challenger 600 series delivers wide-body comfort and intercontinental reach at an attractive operating cost.”

Bombardier Challenger 601 large-cabin private jet on runway, 9–12 passenger capacity with 6,600 km range
Bombardier Challenger 601 cabin interior with wide double-club seating for 9–12 passengers and enclosed lavatory

Introduction & Fun Facts

The Challenger 600, introduced in the late 1970s, was one of the first private jets to feature a true wide-body cabin with stand-up headroom and space comparable to commercial airliners of its time.

Its successor, the Challenger 601, quickly became one of the most popular large business jets of the 1980s and 1990s, with hundreds still in operation today. Known for its robust engineering and versatility, the 601 provided a stepping stone to Bombardier’s later long-range Global family.

Fun fact: Despite being introduced more than 40 years ago, many Challenger 601s are still flying today thanks to modernized avionics, cabin refurbishments, and strong demand for affordable large-cabin charters.

Cabin & Comfort

  • Seats: 9–12 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 8.61 m (28 ft 3 in) length × 2.49 m (8 ft 2 in) width × 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) height

  • Luggage Capacity: Fits up to 12 medium suitcases plus hand luggage

  • Layout: Wide-body double-club configuration with divan options

  • Lavatory: Fully enclosed rear lavatory

  • Flight Attendant: Usually included on long-haul flights

The Challenger 600/601 cabin is renowned for being one of the widest in its class, offering comfort for both business and leisure travelers across transcontinental and transatlantic journeys.

Catering

On longer flights such as Geneva–New York or Zurich–Accra, passengers can enjoy hot meals, full dining service, fine wines, and champagne. For shorter routes, premium snacks and light catering are typically served.

Performance & Specs

  • Range: up to 6,600 km (≈ 4,101 mi / 3,565 nm) — around 7 hours of flight

  • Cruising Speed: 850 km/h (≈ 528 mph / 459 knots)

  • Engines: 2 × General Electric CF34 turbofans (upgraded from earlier versions)

  • Take-off Distance: approx. 1,800 m (≈ 5,905 ft)

  • Maximum Ceiling: 12,500 m (41,000 ft)

Popular Routes & Prices

The Challenger 600/601 makes intercontinental flights efficient and cost-effective compared to newer large jets.

  • Geneva – New York: from 85,000 EUR

  • Zurich – Accra: from 78,000 EUR

  • Paris Le Bourget – Baku: from 65,000 EUR

Prices are indicative, subject to aircraft positioning, seasonality, and request preparation time.

Why Choose the Challenger 600 / 601

  • Wide-body comfort with space for 9–12 passengers

  • Proven and reliable performance over decades

  • Competitive charter rates compared to newer aircraft

  • Still highly popular for intercontinental routes

Technical Data

  • Aircraft Type: Large Cabin Jet

  • Manufacturer: Bombardier Aerospace

  • Range: 6,600 km (4,101 mi / 3,565 nm)

  • Cruise Speed: 850 km/h (528 mph / 459 knots)

  • Seats: 9–12 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 8.61 m × 2.49 m × 1.85 m (28 ft 3 in × 8 ft 2 in × 6 ft 1 in)

  • Luggage Capacity: 12 medium suitcases plus hand luggage

  • Lavatory: Fully enclosed rear lavatory