NBAA: Bombardier unveils Challenger 650 with NetJets as launch partner

Bombardier has expanded its Challenger family of business jets with the addition of the new Challenger 650 aircraft announced on the eve of NBAA in Florida.
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The new aircraft – a replacement for the Challenger 605 – is being developed in partnership with NetJets, the global launch customer for the aircraft.
NetJets had placed a firm order for 25 Challenger 650 jets, formerly referred to as the Challenger 605 "NG", in June 2012. The order was with options for 50 additional aircraft. The Signature Series brand of the Challenger 650 aircraft has been designed with unique features such as customized cabinetry, seating, next-generation In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) and lighting. Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2015.
"The Challenger 650 jet enhances our leading business aircraft portfolio, the largest within the industry and will establish new standards in its segment," said Eric Martel, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "This aircraft will provide our customers with the ultimate in-flight experience, a superior baseline offering and the lowest direct operating costs in its class. With the Challenger 650 jet, they will have it all."
NetJets senior vice president of global asset management Chuck Suma said, "The proven reliability of the Challenger 605 series played a significant role in our decision to order Challenger 650 aircraft. This new aircraft, with its enhanced performance capabilities, cutting-edge interior design and the lowest direct operating costs in its class, will be a great addition to our fleet."
The aircraft's enhanced GE engines offer greater thrust, shorter take-off distance, extra payload capacity and greater range capabilities out of challenging airports. With a true 4,000 nm (7,408 km) range capability, the Challenger 650 jet will connect London to New York, Dubai to London and Sao Paulo to Miami non-stop.
It will feature redesigned seats and galley, a new cabin management system, largest-in-class HD monitors, audio video on demand, Bluetooth integration and industry-leading connectivity capabilities.
The new 650 aircraft will feature the Bombardier Vision flight deck, providing pilots with cutting edge technology and superior design aesthetics for new levels of control and comfort, in addition to increasing situational awareness and reducing pilot workload.