Bombardier's Challenger 3500 at EBACE 2023.
GENEVA—Bombardier’s multi-prong aircraft strategy is evident here at EBACE, as it displays how past, current and evolutionary aircraft designs are all part of its future business—and all feature sustainability elements.
For technologies in development, its sub-10% scaled demonstrator of the EcoJet program just wrapped up testing, says Stephen McCullough, senior vice president of engineering and product development at Bombardier. The EcoJet concept debuted at EBACE in 2022 to test technologies Bombardier could use to meet the industry’s goal of being net carbon neutral by 2050.
McCullough revealed Bombardier built and is now testing a larger version, one with an 18-ft. wingspan, in Canada. The larger version allows it to get closer to what a full-scale aircraft could be.
“We’re really, really happy with the results of the first flight of the larger unit,” as well as “the energy that this program has given us” in developing technology to ensure business aviation will have a sustainable future, McCullough says.
Its latest in-service aircraft, the Challenger 3500, is making its European debut here. The company already has delivered “almost 50 airplanes” since the Challenger 3500 entered into service last September, says Éric Martel, Bombardier president and CEO.
The Challenger 3500’s interior features sustainable materials as well as the recently announced Iridium Certus connectivity. This aircraft, along with three Global aircraft, includes an Environmental Product Declaration.
On the used aircraft front, Bombardier is showcasing a Challenger 605 from 2012 that is part of its Certified Pre-Owned aircraft program. This aircraft on static display features new Collins Pro Line 21 avionics, Ka-band cabin connectivity, a new interior and fresh paint. “It has the feeling of a brand new aircraft,” yet at a lower price point, says Paul Sislian, executive vice president, Bombardier Aftermarket Services and Strategy.
In addition to the interior and cockpit refurbishment, the aircraft also underwent all relevant maintenance, including service bulletins, and a Level 3 pre-buy inspection.
The program includes a one-year tip-to-tail warranty and Smart Parts for “peace of mind,” Sislian says.
He says the Certified, Pre-Owned aircraft are selling “10% above market value” and are “40% faster than aircraft in the same vintage.”
Bombardier says: “Considering that there is an average of 460 Bombardier pre-owned aircraft transactions per year, we see a strong opportunity to capture this significant market. We also see great enthusiasm from customers for our unique value proposition.”
About 5,000 total Bombardier aircraft are in service.
