Bombardier Challenger 601-1A

Overview & History

The Challenger 601-1A enjoys a rich history and a solid reputation as one of the most in-demand business jets on the charter market. The aircraft is part of the Challenger 601 family of aircraft.

The 601 series marks a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the 600, introducing a more reliable flight system and enhanced maintainability.

Its fuel efficiency, versatile performance, and powerful General Electric CF34-1A engines make it an exceptional choice for frequent cross-country journeys under demanding conditions.

The spacious cabin offers maximum comfort for passengers, a testament to Bombardier’s adherence to the highest standards of aviation design. Indeed, the Challenger was one of the first business jets to be designed with a super-critical wing, a feature that reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency.

The Challenger 601-1A made its first flight in April 1982 and received FAA certification a year later in March 1983. Upon receiving certification, Canadair, the original manufacturer, renamed the aircraft to CL601-1A to reflect the CF43-1A engines that powered the new Challenger.

Between 1983 and 1987, a total of 66 aircraft were delivered, contributing to the 1,600 Challengers currently in-service which have logged an impressive 7.3 million hours over 4.3 million flights.

Bombardier Challenger 601-1A Performance

Highlighting the prowess of the Challenger 601-1A, the jet is equipped with two General Electric CF34 engines, crafted specifically for optimal performance.

These engines, unlike the ALF 502L turbofan engines in the original 600-1A model, are mounted near the tail on the rear fuselage, facilitating uninterrupted airflow even at steep angles of attack. This positioning, lower than on the initial Learstar design, balances pitch control features.

The engines also incorporate thrust reversers, which aid in reducing landing distances. On the ground, the aircraft’s auxiliary power unit ensures start-ups and manages cabin air conditioning.

Each of the CF43-1A engines used is flat rated to 70°F, supplying a full thrust of 8,650 pounds up to this temperature. Although performance drops marginally past 70°F, they maintain efficient performance even in temperatures exceeding 90°F.

With enhanced takeoff weight capabilities of 44,600 lbs, the Challenger 601-1A can take off within a distance of 5,400 feet at sea level. The impressive fuel capacity and efficient winglets allow the aircraft to transport five passengers up to a non-stop distance of 3,500 nautical miles (nm).

The jet’s top cruise speed is an impressive 459 knots, but it is typically used for long-range trips, cruising at a speed of 424 knots. For long-range cruising, the aircraft is capable of operating at a speed of Mach 0.74.

The average hourly fuel consumption for the Challenger 600 is 278 gallons per hour (GPH), allowing for a range of 3,366 nautical miles.

Bombardier Challenger 601-1A Interior

The interior of the aircraft is a pinnacle of comfort and luxury, with dimensions that notably exceed those of standard private jets.

The cabin boasts a width of 8.2 feet, a height of 6.1 feet, and the cabin length is 28.3 feet, totalling a substantial volume of 1,407 cubic feet.

This expansive space ensures passengers experience a tranquil and well-illuminated environment.

The 601-1A typical seating configuration is able to comfortably fit between eight and twelve passengers, although it has the capacity for as many as nineteen.

For luggage, the baggage compartment can hold an impressive 116 bags, assuming each item is less than 5 cubic feet.

In a standard executive layout, the cabin is divided into the forward galley and two seating sections.

These sections are usually furnished with a cluster of four chairs, followed by either a conference grouping area or divans, and a lavatory at the rear end.

The chairs have full reclining and swivel capabilities, offering maximum comfort, while the divans can be utilized as sleeping arrangements.

This all maximizes passenger comfort.

Early models are equipped with luxuries such as telephones, intuitive lighting controls, and stereo systems.

Foldaway tables attached to the cabin walls and two wardrobes, one at the front and one at the back, provide storage for hand luggage and smaller items.

Bombardier Challenger 601-1A Cockpit

The cockpit is equipped with advanced avionics, including dual digital Honeywell DFZ-800 flight guidance systems and Honeywell laser INS.

It also incorporates dual Honeywell EDZ-800 electronic flight instrument systems (EFIS) and Collins com/nav/ident radios for efficient communication and navigation.

The avionic suite is comprehensive, with the CL-600 models furnished with a dual-channel Sperry SPZ-600 automatic flight control system as standard. This system, more commonly found in larger commercial aircraft, integrates a flight director and air data computers and is certifiable for performing category 3A automatic landings.

The flight control system is designed with significant redundancy, featuring three distinct hydraulic systems. This ensures a sufficient level of control over key flight surfaces, even in the event of complete failure and actuator loss.

Standard equipment also includes weather radar and solid-state instrument displays from Marconi. In addition, a Collins-built radio set is supplied, while optional equipment such as HF radio sets and VHF navigational aids can be installed for enhanced long-range communication.

Bombardier Challenger 601-1A Charter Cost

Chartering the Challenger 601-1A comes with a cost of approximately $5,750 per hour.

However, it’s worth noting that this figure can vary significantly based on a plethora of factors.

For instance, the duration of the flight, the time of year, and the location of the flight can all influence the final charter price. In addition, costs can also fluctuate depending on the current market demand for private jets, with prices often surging during periods of high demand.

It’s also essential to account for other associated costs such as fuel surcharges, landing fees, and crew accommodations for overnight trips, as these can add a substantial amount to the total charter cost.

Bombardier Challenger 601-1A Purchase Cost

When first released, the 601-1A commanded a price tag of roughly $13.8 million.

This aircraft, renowned for its performance and luxury, was considered worth the price tag by charter companies and private owners alike.

In today’s market, the cost to purchase a pre-owned example varies broadly, largely influenced by its age, total flight hours, maintenance history, and the condition of the interior.

As a general guide, prices can range from $1 million for older models with significant flight hours to $3 million for newer, well-maintained examples.