Bombardier Challenger 604: Ultimate Luxury and Performance in Business Aviation
What is a Bombardier Challenger 604 Jet?
The Bombardier Challenger 604 is a sophisticated large-cabin business jet that represents the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and reliability in corporate aviation. As a cornerstone of Bombardier's prestigious Challenger series, this aircraft combines exceptional range capabilities with spacious cabin comfort, making it an ideal choice for high-level executives, corporations, and discerning travelers who demand the very best in private air travel.
Overview of the Bombardier Challenger 604 Jet
The Challenger 604 emerged as an evolution of Bombardier's successful Challenger series, introduced in the mid-1990s as a significant upgrade to its predecessor, the Challenger 601. With production spanning from 1995 to 2006, the Challenger 604 established itself as one of the most successful business jets in its class, with approximately 350 units delivered worldwide. Its enduring popularity speaks to the aircraft's exceptional design, performance characteristics, and versatility across various mission profiles.
Design and Specifications of the Bombardier Challenger 604 Jet
Body and Cabin Features
The Challenger 604 features a distinctive wide-body design that sets it apart in the business jet market. Its spacious cabin measures 28.3 feet in length, 8.2 feet in width, and 6.1 feet in height, creating an impressive 1,146 cubic feet of cabin volume—among the largest in its class. This generous space allows for versatile cabin configurations that can accommodate various seating arrangements, meeting areas, and private compartments.
The cabin typically features a forward galley, a forward lavatory, and a spacious rear lavatory with a wardrobe. The aircraft can be configured with various seating arrangements, most commonly featuring club seating, a conference group, and individual seats or a divan at the rear. High-quality materials, including fine leathers, wood veneers, and metal accents, contribute to an atmosphere of refined luxury.
Size and Capacity
-
External Dimensions:
- Length: 68.5 feet (20.9 meters)
- Wingspan: 64.3 feet (19.6 meters)
- Height: 20.7 feet (6.3 meters)
-
Internal Dimensions:
- Cabin Length: 28.3 feet (8.6 meters)
- Cabin Width: 8.2 feet (2.5 meters)
- Cabin Height: 6.1 feet (1.85 meters)
- Cabin Volume: 1,146 cubic feet (32.5 cubic meters)
-
Capacity:
- Standard Seating: 10 passengers
- Maximum Seating: Up to 19 passengers
- Typical Configuration: 9-12 passengers plus crew
- Flight Crew: 2 pilots
- Cabin Crew: 1-2 flight attendants
-
Baggage Capacity:
- Internal Baggage: 115 cubic feet (3.25 cubic meters)
- External Baggage: Accessible in flight
Performance and Speed
Range and Endurance
The Challenger 604 excels in long-range operations, capable of flying 4,077 nautical miles (7,551 km) with 8 passengers and NBAA IFR reserves. This impressive range allows for non-stop flights between major global business centers such as:
- New York to London
- London to Dubai
- Los Angeles to Honolulu
- Singapore to Sydney
- Moscow to Beijing
The aircraft's 6 auxiliary fuel tanks contribute to this exceptional range capability, allowing executives to conduct business across continents without the inconvenience of refueling stops.
Speed and Altitude
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 488 knots (904 km/h)
- Long-Range Cruise Speed: 424 knots (785 km/h)
- Maximum Operating Altitude: 41,000 feet (12,497 meters)
- Initial Cruise Altitude: Typically 37,000 feet (11,277 meters)
- Takeoff Distance (MTOW, SL, ISA): 5,840 feet (1,780 meters)
- Landing Distance (MLW, SL, ISA): 2,777 feet (846 meters)
Powerplant and Performance
The Challenger 604 is powered by two General Electric CF34-3B turbofan engines, each producing 8,729 pounds of thrust. These reliable powerplants deliver exceptional performance across various operating conditions, ensuring consistent operation throughout the aircraft's flight envelope.
- Engines: 2 × General Electric CF34-3B turbofans
- Thrust per Engine: 8,729 lbs (38.8 kN)
- Time to Climb to FL370: Approximately 20 minutes
- Fuel Capacity: 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg)
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 260 gallons/hour (984 liters/hour)
Avionics and Navigation in the Bombardier Challenger 604 Jet
The Challenger 604 features the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 integrated avionics suite, which includes:
- Six 7.25 × 7.25-inch cathode ray tube (CRT) displays
- Dual digital air data computers
- Dual attitude heading reference systems
- Dual radio altimeters
- Dual VHF navigation systems
- Dual VHF communication systems
- Dual flight management systems
- Weather radar
- Ground proximity warning system
- Traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS)
- Automatic direction finder
- Distance measuring equipment
Later models and retrofitted aircraft may feature upgraded avionics, including Pro Line 21 systems with LCD displays and enhanced navigation capabilities.
Emergency Systems and Procedures
The Challenger 604 incorporates comprehensive safety features, including:
- Fully redundant electrical systems
- Dual hydraulic systems
- Emergency oxygen system for all occupants
- Emergency exit doors with slides
- Fire detection and suppression systems
- Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS)
- Fully-capable auxiliary power unit for ground operations and emergency power
Collision Avoidance and Flight Management
The aircraft is equipped with advanced collision avoidance technology, including:
- Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II)
- Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS)
- Weather radar with turbulence detection
- Flight management systems with comprehensive navigation databases
- Terrain awareness and warning systems
Comparison with Other Business Jets
Feature |
Challenger 604 |
Gulfstream G450 |
Dassault Falcon 2000LXS |
Embraer Legacy 650 |
Range |
4,077 nm |
4,350 nm |
4,000 nm |
3,900 nm |
Max Cruise Speed |
488 knots |
476 knots |
482 knots |
459 knots |
Cabin Volume |
1,146 cu ft |
1,525 cu ft |
1,028 cu ft |
1,410 cu ft |
Cabin Height |
6.1 ft |
6.2 ft |
6.2 ft |
6.0 ft |
Cabin Width |
8.2 ft |
7.3 ft |
7.7 ft |
6.9 ft |
Max Altitude |
41,000 ft |
45,000 ft |
47,000 ft |
41,000 ft |
Passenger Capacity (Std) |
10-12 |
14-16 |
8-10 |
13 |
Engines |
2 × GE CF34-3B |
2 × Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8C |
2 × P&WC PW308C |
2 × Rolls-Royce AE 3007A2 |
Takeoff Distance |
5,840 ft |
5,600 ft |
4,675 ft |
5,741 ft |
Operating Cost (per hour) |
$4,000-$4,500 |
$4,800-$5,300 |
$4,200-$4,700 |
$4,000-$4,500 |
Why Charter a Challenger 604 with JETVIP?
JETVIP proudly offers the Bombardier Challenger 604 as part of our premium charter fleet, providing our distinguished clients with unparalleled comfort, range, and reliability for their global travel needs. When you choose to charter a Challenger 604 with JETVIP, you benefit from:
Elite Service Experience
- Personalized Flight Planning: Our team works with you to design the perfect itinerary tailored to your specific requirements.
- Dedicated Concierge: From gourmet catering preferences to ground transportation arrangements, your personal concierge handles every detail.
- Experienced Flight Crew: Our pilots average over 5,000 flight hours and undergo rigorous training specific to the Challenger 604.
- Cabin Attendants: Professional, discreet cabin staff trained to anticipate your needs before you express them.
Operational Excellence
- 24/7 Flight Operations Center: Continuous monitoring of weather, airspace, and airport conditions to ensure smooth, on-time departures.
- Global Network: Access to over 5,000 airports worldwide, including exclusive private terminals and remote destinations.
- Streamlined Security: Expedited screening procedures that maintain safety while respecting your time and privacy.
- Flexible Scheduling: Ability to adjust departure times with minimal notice to accommodate changing business demands.
Exclusive Charter Advantages
- Guaranteed Availability: With JETVIP's managed fleet program, your Challenger 604 is ready when you are.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear, all-inclusive quotes with no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
- Empty Leg Opportunities: Access to significant savings on repositioning flights.
- Loyalty Benefits: Accumulate flight hours for priority scheduling and complimentary upgrades.
Client Testimonials
"As the CEO of a multinational corporation with operations across three continents, I rely on JETVIP's Challenger 604 service to maintain my demanding schedule. The cabin's spaciousness allows my team to conduct productive meetings en route, while the aircraft's range capabilities mean we can fly direct to most destinations. Their attention to detail is impeccable—from arranging our preferred catering to ensuring every aspect of our journey is seamless." — Jonathan M., CEO, Global Technology Corporation
"I've chartered various aircraft over the years, but the Challenger 604 with JETVIP stands out for both comfort and performance. During a recent family vacation, we appreciated the generous baggage capacity, which easily accommodated our skiing equipment. The cabin remained quiet and comfortable throughout our journey, and the children even mentioned it was their favorite flight experience. JETVIP's team anticipated our every need, making the entire experience truly exceptional." — Sarah T., Private Banking Executive
"Our sports team regularly charters the Challenger 604 with JETVIP for tournament travel. The aircraft's reliability is crucial to our tight schedule, and JETVIP has never disappointed. Their operations team constantly monitors weather conditions and proactively suggests schedule adjustments when necessary. The spacious cabin provides our athletes with the comfort they need to arrive rested and ready to compete. It's a partnership that gives us a competitive edge." — Michael D., Team Manager, Professional Sports Organization
Popular Routes and Flying Examples
The Challenger 604's exceptional range and performance make it ideal for various mission profiles:
- Transatlantic Business: New York to London in approximately 7 hours, arriving refreshed and ready for meetings.
- Coastal Connections: Los Angeles to Miami in just over 4.5 hours, avoiding the inconvenience of commercial layovers.
- European City Hopping: London to Geneva for meetings, then on to Rome for dinner—all in a single day.
- Asian Market Access: Singapore to Tokyo in 6.5 hours, with the cabin comfort and space to review presentations en route.
- Middle Eastern Ventures: Dubai to Frankfurt in 6 hours, with the flexibility to adjust schedules based on meeting outcomes.
Additional Features and Amenities
Cabin Technology and Entertainment
The Challenger 604 typically features advanced cabin management systems, allowing passengers to control lighting, temperature, entertainment options, and window shades from their seats. Entertainment systems may include:
- Satellite television
- High-speed internet connectivity
- Multiple audio/video inputs
- Cabin display screens
- Wireless streaming capabilities
- Satellite phone systems
- Power outlets and USB ports
Galley and Refreshment Capabilities
The forward galley is equipped to serve gourmet meals and refreshments throughout the flight:
- Hot and cold food preparation areas
- Microwave and convection ovens
- Refrigerated storage
- Coffee makers and espresso machines
- Ice drawers
- China, crystal, and silverware storage
- Customizable catering options
Charter Experience with JETVIP
When you charter the Challenger 604 with JETVIP, your experience begins long before you board the aircraft. Our concierge team will contact you to understand your preferences regarding:
- Preferred cabin configuration
- Catering preferences and special dietary requirements
- Ground transportation needs at departure and arrival locations
- Accommodation arrangements if required
- Special occasions or celebrations to be acknowledged during the flight
- Specific entertainment or business needs for your journey
Experience the unparalleled luxury, performance, and service of the Bombardier Challenger 604 with JETVIP. Contact our charter specialists today to plan your next premium journey and discover why the Challenger 604 remains one of the most sought-after business jets in the world.