The amazing Bombardier Challenger 850 combines the elegance of a private aircraft with the roominess of a commercial jet. Often praised for dependability, performance, and comfort, this Bombardier Challenger aircraft has been rather important in business aviation. Still, what makes this aircraft so special, and how did it come to be?
The history, design, performance, and legacy of the Bombardier Challenger 850 will be discussed in this blog, together with the reasons it is still a preferred choice for business and charter aircraft.
The Origins of the Bombardier Challenger 850
Bombardier’s aim to provide a competitively priced, ultra-spacious, long-range business aircraft drove the Challenger 850’s birth Based on the Bombardier CRJ200 regional jet, the Challenger 850 has the size and dependability of an airline while nevertheless preserving the elegance of a business aircraft, unlike conventional private jets built from scratch.
Key Milestones in the Challenger 850’s Development
- Derived from the CRJ200: Bombardier used the proven CRJ200 airframe to create a larger, more spacious business jet.
- Launched in the early 2000s: Initially introduced as the Challenger SE (Special Edition), later renamed the Challenger 850.
- Certified in 2006: Officially approved for commercial and private aviation markets.
- Production discontinued in 2012: However, the aircraft remains popular in the pre-owned market and continues to be widely used by business and charter operators.
The Bombardier Challenger 850 is a very unusual aircraft in its category since it evolved from a regional aircraft to a luxury business jet.
Why the Bombardier Challenger 850 Stands Out
The Bombardier Challenger 850 is perfect for corporate travel, VIP transportation, and long-haul trips, unlike many other business jets, since it offers a real large-cabin experience.
1. Spacious Cabin for Ultimate Comfort
The spacious and comfortable cabin of the Bombardier Challenger 850 is among its main benefits.
- Much more than usual, business jets can carry up to 19 passengers.
- Executive seating, conference rooms, and a lounge area, among other customisable inside spaces.
- Complete standing headroom with a level floor for simpler cabin mobility.
2. Powerful Performance with Proven Reliability
- Equipped with two General Electric CF34-3B1 turbofan engines, same used in commercial aircraft.
- Perfect for transcontinental flights, this ranges in 2,811 nautical miles (5,205 km).
- Mach 0.80, 850 km/h, guarantees quick and effective travel.
3. Cost-Effective for Large Business Jet Travel
- The Challenger 850, for all its weight, is more fuel-efficient than bigger business jets.
- Its aircraft-based architecture lowers maintenance expenses, thereby increasing durability.
- Perfect for business fleets and charter operators, this strikes a mix between elegance and economy.
The Challenger 850 vs. Other Bombardier Challenger Jets
There are multiple models in the Bombardier Challenger family, all meant for various purposes. Comparatively to other Bombardier Challenger aircraft, how does the Challenger 850 stand?
| Feature | Challenger 850 | Challenger 650 | Challenger 350 |
| Cabin Size | Largest in the family | Medium-sized | Smaller, more compact |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 19 | Up to 12 | Up to 10 |
| Range | 2,811 nm (5,205 km) | 4,000 nm (7,408 km) | 3,200 nm (5,926 km) |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.80 | Mach 0.85 | Mach 0.83 |
| Market Focus | VIP & Corporate Travel | Long-range luxury travel | Mid-size business travel |
Although the Challenger 850 has the shortest range among its rivals, its unparalleled cabin size makes it the ideal choice for those who value comfort over great distance.
Who Uses the Bombardier Challenger 850?
1. Business Executives & Corporate Clients
Corporate leaders and international businesses looking for a dependable, roomy, and quick private jet for travel abroad use the Challenger 850 extensively.
2. Charter and VIP Operators
Offering VIP travel services for government leaders, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals, many charter aviation companies have Challenger 850 on their fleet.
3. Government and Military Use
Benefiting from its airline-grade longevity and business jet elegance, some governments and air forces have used the Bombardier Challenger aircraft for VIP travel, reconnaissance, and special missions.
The Legacy of the Bombardier Challenger 850
Though manufacturing stopped in 2012, the Challenger 850 is still a sought-after pre-owned aircraft model. Because of its great comfort, dependability, and economy, it remains a favourite with individual owners and aviation firms.
Dunes Air is among many aviation service companies that see the importance of the Challenger 850 and keep offering it alongside their charter and fleet management programs.
Why the Challenger 850 Still Matters Today
- Proven airframe from the CRJ200, ensuring longevity.
- Spacious and flexible cabin, making it one of the most comfortable business jets available.
- Affordable luxury, delivering high-end private jet experience at a lower cost.
The Bombardier Challenger 850 is a one-of-a-kind business jet that successfully bridges the gap between regional airlines and private jets. With its large cabin, reliable performance, and cost-efficient operation, it remains a strong contender in the business aviation world.
At Dunes Air, we recognise the importance of luxury, reliability, and efficiency in private aviation. Whether you’re looking to charter a Challenger 850 or explore its capabilities, our team is here to provide top-tier aviation services.
Looking for the perfect private jet experience? Contact Dunes Air today and fly in unmatched comfort and style!
