Bombardier Plane Types and Models Guide

Bombardier Aviation

The Canadian firm Bombardier Inc. produces airplanes, rail transportation equipment, and systems. In 1978, the business obtained its current name, and in 1986 it entered the aerospace industry.

Bombardier joined the aerospace sector by purchasing Canadian aircraft maker Canadair. As a result of this acquisition, Bombardier is now the manufacturer of Challenger Jets. Today, Bombardier continues to produce the Global Family and other variations of the Challenger Jet.

Bombardier also purchased Learjet in 1990, and the firm continued to manufacture the renowned Learjet Family until 2021. Bombardier entered the 50 to 86-seat regional aircraft market with the CRJ program, but with the CS Family, it went far beyond.

Following Mitsubishi’s acquisition of the CRJ program and Airbus’s purchase of the CS program, Bombardier Aviation’s jet production is now limited to business jets.

Exploring the Wide Range of Bombardier Aircraft

After several acquisitions, economic ups and downs, and the production of numerous aircraft types, Bombardier—once a maker of snowmobiles and rail transportation—became the industry’s top business jet producer.

Throughout the years, Bombardier bought four businesses: Canadair, LearJet, de Havilland Canada, and Shorts.

Type Name of Family How It Started Current Situation (2022)
Light and Mid-Size Business Jets LearJet Series  Acquired from Learjet Ceased
Mid-Size and Super Mid-Size Business Jets Challenger Family With Canadair Acquisition and Later Bombardier Designs Continues
Long Range Large Business Jets Global Family With Canadair Acquisition and Later Bombardier  Designs Continues
Regional Turboprops Q Series Acquired from de Havilland Canada Sold and became de Havilland Dash 8 again
Regional Jet CRJ Series With Canadair Acquisition and Later Bombardier  Designs Sold to Mitsubishi
Narrow-Body Passenger Jet CSeries Bombardier Design Sold to Airbus
Aerial Firefighting CL-415 With Canadair Acquisition and Later Bombardier  Designs Sold, Produced by de Havilland Canada

Current Airplanes: Challenger Family 

Bombardier Challenger Family aircraft are the company’s mid-size business jets. The current Challenger Family from Bombardier consists of three types, and the Challenger 650 is an improved version of the Challenger 600. 

The Challenger 350, on the other hand, is an improved version of the Challenger 300, which was initially produced as a clean sheet design in the early 2000s. The Challenger 3500, in contrast, is based on the Challenger 350.

Bombardier Challenger 650

Bombardier Challenger 650 

The Challenger 650, launched in 2014, was a revamp of the Challenger 605. Bombardier delivered the first Challenger 650 in 2016. During the design process, Bombardier considered consumer feedback and prioritized maximum cabin capacity, extra-large comfortable seats, and enough leg room.

Design

Bombardier Challenger 650 is a low-wing mid-size business jet with two GE turbofans. Its origins may be traced back to the 1980s, to the Challenger 600. Supercritical wings provide comfort at high speeds and can accommodate up to 12 passengers.

The Challenger 650 delivers a gorgeous look with flowing lines and the height of interior comfort, accentuated by redesigned seats with deployable headrests and ergonomic leg rests.

Challenger 650 has a Pro Line 21-based Vision flying deck. Synthetic vision, Rockwell Collins MultiScan weather radar, optional HUD, and next-generation flight management systems are among the cockpit features of the twinjet.

Specifications and Performance

The Challenger 650 is a high-performance aircraft powered by two GE CF34-3B turbofan engines. Due to its stronger thrust features, a shorter takeoff field length, and more cargo than previous models. The Bombardier Challenger 650 has a range of 4,000 nautical miles and a maximum speed of Mach 0.85.

Table 1: Bombardier Global 650 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 4,000 nm (7,408 km) Max Pax 12
Top Speed M0.85 Max Operating Altitude 41,000 ft (12,497 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.80 Length 68 ft 5 in (20.9 m)
Takeoff Distance 5,640 ft (1,720 m) Wingspan 64 ft 4 in (19.6 m)
Engines 2x GE CF34-3B MTO 

Thrust: 9,220 lbf (41 kN)

Height 20 ft 8 in (6.3 m)

Bombardier Challenger 350

Bombardier Challenger 350

Challenger 350 first flew in June of 2014, after its debut in May 2013. The aircraft, powered by Honeywell’s HTF7350, is a vast improvement over the original Challenger 300. In 2020, Bombardier Challenger’s 350 deliveries reached 350.

Design

The Bombardier Challenger 350 aircraft has been the best-selling super mid-size business jet for six straight years till 2020. A whopping 43% of the market was dominated by it in 2019.

Passengers enjoy an extraordinarily comfortable flight thanks to the aircraft’s well-balanced design. Compared to other aircraft of its type, the Challenger’s spacious interior draws much attention. With room for up to ten people, it has a cabin that can be configured in various ways. It is also equipped with 4G ATG and Ka-band internet.

A Synthetic Vision System, MultiScan weather radar, and an optional lightweight Head-up Display with Enhanced Vision system all come included in the Challenger 350’s cockpit. These tools help to make flying easier for the pilot.

Specifications and Performance

Honeywell’s HTF350 engines, each providing 7,323 pounds of thrust, are offered for the Challenger 350. To reach 43,000 feet, the Challenger 350 has higher power and improved aerodynamics, such as tilted winglets (13,106 m). It has a peak speed of M0.83 and can land at some of the world’s most challenging airports.

Table 2: Bombardier Global 350 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 3,200 nm (5,926 km) Max Pax 10
Top Speed M0.83 Max Operating Altitude 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.80 Length 68 ft 8 in (20.9 m)
Takeoff Distance 4,835 ft (1,474 m) Wingspan 69 ft  (21 m)
Engines 2x Honeywell HTF7350 turbofans

Thrust: 7,323 lbf (33 kN)

Height 20 ft (6.1 m)

Bombardier Challenger 3500

Bombardier Challenger 3500

The Bombardier 3500 is an upgraded version of the Challenger 350 announced in 2021. Cabin altitude, cabin design, cockpit upgrades, and extended range all significantly improved. The Challenger 3500 version also had some of the Global series’ characteristics.

Design

Another low-wing super mid-size business jet the firm offers is the Bombardier Challenger 3500, which can carry up to 10 passengers. It contains several enhancements based on the previous 300 and 350 models and is expected to enter service in the second part of 2022.

One enhancement is a revamped cockpit. The autothrottle feature on the Bombardier Challenger 3500 allows pilots to control engine power by choosing a flying characteristic. The upgraded cockpit of the Challenger 3500 incorporates a HUD, Enhanced Vision Systems, and a Synthetic Vision System.

The new Bombardier Nauge seats in the cabin of the latest Global aircraft are another essential update. At 41,000 feet, the cabin altitude is just 4,850 feet—a 31% improvement over the previous level of 350.

Specifications and Performance

Two HTF7350 turbofans power Bombardier Challenger 3500. With the latest upgrades range of the Challenger 3500 is 3,400 nm compared to Challenger 350 with 3,200 nm.

Table 3: Bombardier Global 3500 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 3,400 nm (6,297 km) Max Pax 10
Top Speed M0.83 Max Operating Altitude 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.80 Length 68 ft 8 in (20.9 m)
Takeoff Distance 4,835 ft (1,474 m) Wingspan 69 ft  (21 m)
Engines 2x Honeywell HTF7350 turbofans

Thrust: 7,323 lbf (33 kN)

Height 20 ft (6.1 m)

Global Family 

Based on the Bombardier CRJ, Global Family planes were created (Canadair Regional Jet). First launched in early 1991, the Global Express initiative was a follow-up to the CRJ program. 

It wasn’t enough to merely improve on Canadair’s CRJ program for Laurent Beaudoin, the chairman of Bombardier. He wanted Bombardier to get to the top of the industry by creating a superior product to its rivals.

Bombardier wanted to create a 21st-century business aircraft with superior range, comfort, and performance. Engineering and marketing worked closely throughout product conceptualization to determine the aircraft’s range.

When it was first introduced to the public, the Global Express had a range of 10,460 km (5,650 miles), eight passengers, and a cruise speed of Mach 0.80. It could fly nonstop from Los Angeles-Tokyo and Tokyo-London in 12 hours, beating the competition by 1,110 kilometers in range.

The first flight took place in 1996, and the aircraft went into service in 1999. Next came the Global Express XRS (6000), followed by the Global 5000, the Global 5500, Global 6500, and the Global 7500.

Bombardier Global 5500

Bombardier Global 5500

Before the beginning of EBACE in 2018, Bombardier announced the Global 5500. Global 5500 and Global 6500 were initially positioned between Global 5000 and Global 7500 when they were first presented. In 2020, the first Global 5500 went into service.

Design

The Global 5500, with its low wing and sleek form, is a high-end business jet designed to provide optimum comfort while flying longer distances quicker. 

The Global 5500 typically seats 13 passengers, although this may be altered based on client demand, with a maximum capacity of 16 passengers. In contrast, spacious seating assures passenger comfort regardless of the length of the travel. Three unique living areas offer the required solitude and comfort. Together with the restroom, these three areas are the club suite, conference suite, and private suite.

Innovative features include a 4K-enabled cabin and a fast in-flight connection. The Nauge chaise seating system is a lounge chair that follows the curvature of your body which Bombardier is proud of. And Pur Air, an air filtration system with powerful HEPA filters, provides 100 percent pure air.

When it comes to the cockpit, Bombardier employs innovative technologies to increase the comfort of the pilots. A complete avionics system is used on the Bombardier Vision flight deck.

The Combined Vision System, on the other hand, is a total game changer. To simplify crew burden, it smoothly blends the Synthetic Vision System and the Enhanced Vision System into a unified perspective.

Specifications and Performance

Powering the Global 5500 are two Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 engines specifically designed to fit the aircraft. Global 5500 has a range of 5,900 nautical miles, allowing it to fly nonstop from Sao Paulo to Paris. Bombardier has achieved outstanding performance without sacrificing comfort using a re-profiled trailing edge on its Flex Wing design. 

Table 4: Bombardier Global 5500 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 5,900 nm (10,927 km) Max Pax 16
Top Speed M0.90 Max Operating Altitude 51,000 ft (15,545 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.85 Length 96 ft 10 in (29.5 m)
Takeoff Distance 5,340 ft (1,628 m) Wingspan 94 ft (28.7 m)
Engines 2x Rolls-Royce Pearl

Thrust: 15,125 lbf (67.3 kN)

Height 25 ft 6 in (7.8 m)

Bombardier Global 6500

Bombardier Global 6500

Announced together with Global 5500, Global 6500 is a more extended range and higher capacity model. Global 6500 is simply 0.8 meters longer version of the Global G5500, and hence they have a considerable amount of commonality. 

Design

The maximum capacity of the Bombardier Global 6500 is 17 people, and it can fly 700 nm farther and carry one more person than its smaller sibling because of the bigger airframe. In terms of the next generation of wings, both the Global 6500 and the Global 5500 use the same advanced wings.

External high-lift fairings soften the ride while leading edge slats boost wing loading and stability. Contoured wing trailing-edge improves aerodynamics and flexibility of wings. The interior, cockpit, and wing are all identical to the Global 5500.

Specifications and Performance

Two Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 engines power the Bombardier Global 6500. The Pearl 15 delivers greater power and efficiency for Bombardier business jets, and it enables Global 6500 to top speeds of Mach 0.90. The engine has an advanced health monitoring system as well.

Table 5: Bombardier Global 6500 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 6,600 nm (12,223 km) Max Pax 17
Top Speed M0.90 Max Operating Altitude 51,000 ft (15,545 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.85  Length 99 ft 5 in (30.3m)
Takeoff Distance 6,145 ft (1,873 m) Wingspan 94 ft (28.7 m)
Engines 2x Rolls-Royce Pearl

Thrust: 15,125 lbf (67.3 kN)

Height 25 ft 6 in (7.8 m)

Bombardier Global 7500

Bombardier Global 7500 

Bombardier Global 7500 and Global 8000 are not just the company’s flagships; they are also the flagships of the business jet industry by being the first civil aircraft flown supersonically since Concorde. 

In 2010 the initiative was referred to as Global 7000. There were plans to build a business jet with four cabins, a range of 7,700 nautical miles, and a peak speed of Mach 0.925 with the new aircraft in Bombardier’s portfolio.

Because Bombardier intended to redesign the wings, there were considerable delays. To emphasize the range expansion from 7,400 to 7,700 nm, the aircraft’s name was changed to Global 7500 in 2018 after its first flight in 2016.

In 2018, Bombardier Global acquired its type certificate and went into service. 2021 marks the 50th production of the Global 7500, a business jet that can fly ultra-long ranges, and it is the company’s flagship along with the Global 8000.

Design

The unique low-wing design distinguishes Global 7500. Mach 0.925 is challenging to maintain since some aircraft parts can reach Mach 1.0 at this speed. So-called transonic speeds. Global 7500 can fly near the speed of sound, but it doesn’t pass it to prevent shock waves and additional drag, which would impair efficiency.

Because the wings are clean and have a lot of sweep, the plane can fly at very high speeds, keep control with high-speed ailerons, and make the ride more comfortable by being flexible.

The Global 7500, which can accommodate up to 19 passengers, pays excellent attention to its interior and comfort. There are four living areas, a full kitchen, and a crew suite inside its opulent layout. The Global 7500 provides the highest comfort levels with its revolutionary Nuage chair, Pur Air technology for 100% fresh air, and a full-size bed.

The cockpit of the Global 7500 is equipped with the Bombardier Vision flight deck. The fly-by-wire technology on the aircraft works with cutting-edge avionics to maximize safety and maintain the aircraft’s flying envelope.

Specifications and Performance

Bombardier Global 7500 is powered by two GE Passport engines providing 18,920 lbf thrust each. Along with the aircraft’s highly aerodynamic wings and airframe, GE Passport engines give a range of 7,700 nm (200 nm higher than Gulfstream G700) and a speed of Mach 0.925.

Along with extra-long range and high speeds, Global 7500 also has good takeoff and landing performances.

Table 6: Bombardier Global 7500 Specs – Source: Bombardier

Max Range 7,700 nm (14,260 km) Max Pax 19
Top Speed M0.925 Max Operating Altitude 51,000 ft (15,545 m)
Typical Cruise Speed M0.85  Length 111 ft  (33.8m)
Takeoff Distance 5,760 ft (1,756 m) Wingspan 104 ft (31.7 m)
Engines 2x GE Passport

Thrust: 18,920lbf (84.16 kN)

Height 27 ft  (8.2 m)

Bombardier Global 8000

Bombardier Global 8000

On May 18, 2021, the Bombardier FTV5, a Global 7500 used for testing, became the first business jet to break the sound barrier and the fastest civil aircraft since Concorde. Because of the success of the FTV5, the Global 8000, a faster and longer-range business jet, was planned.

The Global 8000 was unveiled in 2022, with a range of 8,000 nm and a peak speed of Mach 0.94. While the Gulfstream G800 can equal the range, it has a peak speed of Mach 0.925.

Airplanes Produced in the Past: Bombardier Challenger 300

Bombardier Challenger 300 

Challenger 300 was initially known as Continental when unveiled in 1999 at the NBAA Convention. The aircraft was renamed in 2002 and went into service in 2004. Coast-to-coast flight range across the United States for eight people with standing headroom and a takeoff length of fewer than 1,525 meters were among the aircraft’s design goals.

Design

The supercritical wing of the Bombardier Challenger has winglets and a sweepback. In the eyes of Bombardier, the aircraft is a super-midsize business jet. From the ground up, the Bombardier Challenger 300 was designed to accommodate eight people in an unmatched cabin at the time. Collins Pro Line avionics were available on board.

Specifications and Performance

Challenger was capable of flying 3,100 nm (5,741 km) at a peak speed of Mach 0.82 when powered by two Honeywell AS907 high bypass ratio turbofan engines with 6,826 pounds of thrust.

Table 7: Bombardier Challenger 300 Specs – Source: Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft

Max Range 3,100 nm Max Pax 9
Top Speed M0.82 Max Operating Altitude 45,000 ft (13,715 m)
Normal Cruise Speed M0.80 Length Overall 68 ft 8 in (20.93 m)
Takeoff Distance 4,950 ft (1,509 m) Wingspan 63 ft 10 in (19.46 m)
Engines 2x Honeywell AS907 Height 20 ft 3 in (6.17 m)

Bombardier Challenger 600 Series 

Bombardier Challenger 600

The first aircraft in the Challenger 600 series was developed as a Canadair. From 1976 until 1986, Canadair was a government-owned enterprise before being purchased by Bombardier. The 1970s were difficult for Canadair, and creating Challenger was a chance to survive in a sinking industry, making it the company’s most critical period.

William Powell Lear, the Learjet’s founder, attempted to create a new 14-passenger executive jet with a supercritical wing and high bypass turbofan engines.

Before Canadair purchased the early concept designs, Challenger 600 was known as LearStar 600. However, Canadair modified the design beyond recognition. Following the purchase of rights, Canadair began preliminary designs in 1976 and renamed the aircraft Challenger in 1977.

On May 25, 1978, only 19 months after the go-ahead, the first Challenger was rolled out. It was state-of-the-art, the first wide-bodied business jet. The challenger 600 series was produced by Canadair until Bombardier bought the company in 1986.

In the late 70s, Challenger 600 was a real challenge as it was named after existing models like Gulfstream II. The Bombardier Challenger series had one more variant, Challenger 650, in 2015, following the previous variants (600,601,604,605).

Design

The Bombardier Challenger was equipped with supercritical wings and turbofan engines. The Challenger was one of the first commercial aircraft to include supercritical wings, which decreased drag at high speeds.

The spacious fuselage of the Challenger 600 allows passengers to stand and move during long flights. It was popular because it featured the biggest interior of any large executive aircraft.

Various plane variants have been introduced throughout time. Winglets were fitted to the CL-601 to minimize drag, and the Lycoming ALF 502L turbofans were replaced with GE CF34s.

Bombardier Challenger 604 combined the 601 airframe with a more powerful power plant and modern avionics. It had a robust landing gear from the Regional Jet Airliner, a Challenger 600 derivative.

CL-605 took to the skies for the first time in 2006 with a new airframe, larger cabin windows, and Collins Pro Line 21 avionics.

Specifications and Performance

Table 8: Bombardier Challenger 604 Specs – Source: Executive Jets by Szurovy Geza

Range 4,000 nm FAA Certified Altitude 41,000 ft
Engines GE CF34-3B Turbofan Cabin Width 8.2 ft
Passengers (typical) 9 to 12 Length 68.4 ft
Max takeoff weight 47,600 lbs Wingspan 64.3 ft
Max Mach Operating Speed 0.85 Height 20.7 ft

Bombardier Global Express

Bombardier Global Express

Global Express was the first Bombardier ultra-long-range business aircraft to enter service in 1999. Its fuselage cross-section is similar to that of the CRJ and Challenger 600.

The Global 6000 is an upgraded version, while the shorter range Global 5000 is slightly smaller. The most dramatic advances to the aircraft variations that began with Global Express are the later Global 7500 and 8000 models.

Global Express competed with Gulfstream G-V. The twin-engine aircraft was planned to travel as far as its American counterpart, with a bigger, quieter interior, greater cruising speeds, and better airport performance.

There were 148 BD-700s produced between 1999 and 2005 and delivered before they were superseded by the Global Express-XRS, presently known as the Global 6000.

Design

A cutting-edge, brand-new supercritical wing with winglets and a T-tail was featured on Global Express. The Honeywell Primus 2000 XP suite, which features six CRT displays, is included in its glass cockpit. An automatic flight control system, a dual flight management system, and TCAS II were all standard in the cockpit 

Specifications and Performance

Table 9: Bombardier Global Express Specs – Source: AOPA

Max Range 6,500 nm Max Pax 19
High Cruising Speed M0.88 Max Takeoff Weight 93,500 lb
Normal Cruise Speed M0.85 Length  99 ft. 5 in
Takeoff Distance 5,620 ft Wingspan 94 ft
Engines 2xBMW/Rolls-Royce BR-710A2-20 turbofans, 14,750 lb thrust each Height 24 ft. 10 in

Bombardier CRJ Series

Bombardier CRJ Series

Bombardier started the 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) program in 1989 and was certified in 1992. Eventually, the CRJ program expanded with the launch of the 86-seat Bombardier CRJ900 in 2000 and the 100-seat CRJ1000 in 2007. The CRJ700, a regional jet with 70 seats, made its debut in 1997.

When combined with the existing airline system, CRJ is the perfect regional option. While the hub-and-spoke model utilized by the vast majority of airlines today is great for the industry’s big players, it’s not always convenient for travelers. CRJ was developed in response to these emerging needs.

As a regional aircraft, it was more expensive than turboprop options, yet much faster compared to them. Japanese Mitsubishi acquired the CRJ program in 2020.

Design

The Challenger 600 served as the foundation for the CRJ100 and CRJ200. 3.25 meters of the fuselage in front of the wing and 3 meters in behind would be added to boost the Challenger’s capacity to 50 passengers.

If the GE CF34 engines were just slightly modified, takeoff weight would increase only by 10%. To accommodate the additional length, the wings were enlarged by 91 cm.

The design evolved into the CRJ700 Series, which includes the CRJ900 and CRJ1000. These were expanded and enhanced versions of preceding CRJ models in various lengths to take up more space in the regional jet market.

Each CRJ Series version has unique characteristics. The CRJ700 is the lightest aircraft in its class, delivering excellent effectiveness, economy, and fuel savings. The adaptable CRJ900 is ideal for expanding markets.

The CRJ1000, the family’s largest member, has the lowest seat-mile cost in the regional jet industry, consuming up to 13% less fuel than its competitors.

Specifications and Performance

CRJ700, CRJ900, and CRJ1000 shared the same engine GE CF34-8C.

Table 10: Bombardier CRJ Series Specs – Source: Bombardier CRJ Series Brochure

Specs: CRJ700 CRJ900 CRJ1000
Passenger Capacity Up to 78 Up to 90 Up to 104
MTOW 72,750 lb / 32,999 kg 80,500 lb / 33,340 kg 81,500 lb / 36,968 kg
Range Up to 1,400 nm Up to 1,550 nm Up to 1,650 nm
Max/Normal Cruise Speed 0.825 Mach / 0.78 Mach 0.82 Mach / 0.78 Mach 0.82 Mach / 0.78 Mach
Length 106 ft. 1 in. / 32.3 m 118 ft. 11 in. / 36.2 m 128 ft. 5 in. / 39.1 m
Wingspan 76 ft. 3 in. / 23.2 m 81 ft. 7 in / 24.9 m 85 ft. 10 in. / 26.2 m

Bombardier C Series

Bombardier C Series

With modern aviation technology, especially the Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engine and better composite materials, a lighter, quieter, and more fuel-efficient 100–150 passenger aircraft was possible. Bombardier saw an opportunity and developed the CS100 and CS300. 

The first agreement with Lufthansa was struck in 2008, and the first CS aircraft took flight in 2013. In 2016, Swiss Airlines, a Lufthansa subsidiary, became the C Series’s first operator. Being the first client, Swiss Airlines was instrumental in developing the C Series.

The Canadian Bombardier had a fantastic year in 2016 after obtaining another significant agreement with Delta Air Lines, which meant entry into another large market.

Unfortunately, and in my opinion, quite unjustly, a year later, Boeing filed a protest against the deal, accusing Bombardier of dumping the price of the aircraft to gain an edge over Boeing.

Following these developments, Bombardier opted to sell the project to Airbus, which became the Airbus A220. 

Design

The Bombardier C Series, a narrow-body aircraft capable of carrying 100 to 150 passengers, pioneered various innovations. When comparing the CS100 to the CS300, the CS300 adds 3.8 meters and 20 seats.

Lighter materials and specifically built wings reduced the airplane’s weight while improving aerodynamics, making flights more pleasant and efficient. The electric brakes on CS planes were more effective, and Fly-by-wire and other avionics left a distinct imprint on the airplane.

Many airlines want a plane like the Bombardier C Series, which lowers per-seat costs while increasing efficiency. This is reflected in Airbus A220 orders.

Specifications and Performance

The company envisioned achieving class-leading efficiency and performance by equipping their Bombardier C Series planes with two ground-breaking Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G geared turbofans.

Table 11: Bombardier C Series Specs – Source: Bombardier C Series Brochure

Specs: CS100 CS300
Passenger Capacity 108 (up yo 135) 130 (up to 160)
MTOW 134,000 lb / 60,781 kg 149,000 lb / 67,585 kg
Range 3,100 nm / 5,741 km 3,300 nm / 6,112 km
Takeoff Field Length 4,000 ft / 1,219 m 5,000 ft / 1,524 m
Max Cruise Speed 0.82 Mach 0.82 Mach
Normal Cruise Features 0.78 Mach 0.78 Mach
Engine Options: PW1519G (18,900 lbf), PW1521G (21,000 lbf), PW1524G (23,300 lbs), PW1525G (23,300 lbf)

Bombardier Q Series

Bombardier Q Series

Bombardier acquired the Q Series of airplanes by acquiring another producer, de Havilland Canada. The maiden flight of the Dash-7 took place in the latter 1970s, and the parent company British de Havilland was unhappy.

To assure de Havilland Canada’s ongoing operation before its sale to Boeing and later takeover by Bombardier, the Canadian government bought de Havilland Canada.

Before being purchased by Bombardier in 1992, de Havilland was already producing Dash 8 variants in the early 1980s.

Initially, three sizes were available: Dash 8-100 for the 40-seat market, -200 for additional power, -300 for the 50-56-seat market, and -400 for the 68-90-seat market. The models were renamed Q200, Q300, and Q400 by Bombardier. Except for the Q400, Bombardier stopped producing models in 2008.

Similar to the CRJ, the Bombardier Q400 was a regional airplane that carried a similar number of passengers. However, because it was a turboprop, the Q400 could travel for less money over short ranges.

Longview Aviation Capital bought Q Series aircraft, rebranding them under the e Havilland Canada name in 2019.

Design

One of the most popular regional turboprops on the market was the Q400, a high-wing passenger turboprop. It mostly faced off against Embraer and ATR (Airbus subsidiary).

The Q400 can accommodate 82 people in a single class with a convenient 30-inch pitch for each passenger. Bombardier made a great effort to make the aircraft’s interior as comfortable as a jet’s. Turboprops are noisy, so Bombardier utilized an active noise and vibration system.

Specifications and Performance

Airlines may choose between affordable solutions with the advantages of turboprop engines, thanks to the Bombardier Q400. It may fly slowly to save fuel use or quickly to enhance productivity. Additionally, it may operate from short runways. 2 Pratt Whitney Canada PW150A turboprops powered the Bombardier Q400. 

Table 12: Bombardier Q400 Specs – Source: Bombardier Q400 Brochure 

Capacity Up to 90 Max/Intermediate/Long-Range Cruise Speeds 360 kts (Mach 0.5) / 320 kts / 300 kts
MTOW 61,700 lb / 27,987 kg Range 1,100 nm / 2,040 km
Normal Cruise Speed M0.85 Length  107 ft. 9 in / 32.8 m
Takeoff Field Length 4,265 ft / 1,300 m Wingspan 93 ft. 3 in. / 28.4 m 

Bombardier Learjet Family

William Powell Lear established the Canadian commercial jet company Learjet in the late 1950s. Up until 2021, it was a Bombardier subsidiary until it ceased.

The Learjet 60, which would soon overtake all other aircraft of its kind in terms of sales, was made possible by Bombardier’s 1990 purchase of Learjet. Learjet 75 was the most recent model, and despite plans for Learjet 85, it was never built.

Learjet 60

Bombardier Learjet 60

The Bombardier Learjet 60, a mid-size, medium-range business aircraft, flew for the first time in 1990. Deliveries of a new Learjet 60XR version began in 2007. The Bombardier Learjet 60 had a capacity of seven people and a range of 2,180 nautical miles, thanks to two Pratt & Whitney Canada 350A engines.

Its performance was enhanced when it was improved from the Learjet 55 with the installation of winglets and other aerodynamic improvements. In particular, the Bombardier Learjet 60’s ability to ascend quickly earned it a reputation for excellence.

Table 13: Bombardier Learjet 60 Specs – Source:Globalair.com

Capacity 8 Normal/Max Range 2,180 nm / 2418 nm
Max Speed 465 kts  Length 58 ft 8 in 
Rate of Climb 4,500 fpm Wing span 43 ft 9 in

Learjet 45

Bombardier Learjet 45 

The light business jet Bombardier Learjet 45 was first revealed at the 1992 NBAA. The planned plane was a brand-new design, the first of its kind since the Model 23. More Bombardier acquisitions were entrusted with assisting Learjet. The fuselage would be made by Shorts, while the wings would be precisely designed and built by De Havilland.

Between the larger Learjets 60 and 40, you’ll find the intermediate-sized Learjet 45. The Electronic Flight Instrument System included four displays in the cockpit.

The Honeywell TFE731-20s was what powered the Bombardier Learjet 45. With increased payload capacity, cruising speed, and enhanced climb performance, the Learjet 45XR debuted in 2004 as an update to the previous model.  

Table 14: Bombardier Learjet 45 Specs – Source:Globalair.com

Capacity 8 Normal/Max Range 1,968 nm / 1,423 nm
Max Speed 465 kts  Length 58 ft 
Rate of Climb 2,800 fpm Wing span 47 ft 10 in

Learjet 40

Bombardier Learjet 40 

Bombardier revealed the Learjet 40 during the 2002 Farnborough Airshow. It is a light business jet and the smallest member of the Bombardier Learjet Family.

Bombardier claims a maximum range of 3340 km (1803 nm) with four passengers in its reduced cabin. At Mach 0.73, it could fly 3120 km (1685 nm) with full fuel and payload. Two Honeywell TFE 731-20AR engines powered it.

Bombardier introduced the Learjet 40 XR in 2004 with enhanced hot and high performance, quicker climbing, and shorter flying periods. In 23 minutes, the Learjet 40 XR could reach 43,000 feet. It can fly 1,781 nautical miles (3,298 km) nonstop with a six-passenger load and full fuel.

Table 15: Bombardier Learjet 40 Specs – Source:Globalair.com

Capacity 7 Normal/Max Range 1,573 nm / 1,707 nm
Max Speed 465 kts  Length 55 ft 5 in 
Rate of Climb 2,820 fpm Wing span 47 ft 9 in

Learjet 70/75

Bombardier Learjet 70 - 75 

Bombardier introduced the Learjet 70 and 75 as improved variants of the Learjet 40 and 45 at the 2012 EBACE. The modern airplanes have a brand new flight deck and integrated cockpit operated by a touchscreen (Garmin G5000), winglets, and completely redesigned interiors.

The new TFE-731-40-BR engines are more fuel-efficient, quieter, and deliver 385 pounds of extra thrust per side. There are new materials inside, including updated connectivity, lighting, and entertainment features.

The Learjet 70 and 75 marked the end of an era and the last manufactured models to bear the Learjet name.

Table 16: Bombardier Learjet 70 Specs – Source:Official Bombardier Brochure

Capacity 7 (standard) Max Range 2,060 nm / 3,815 km
High-Speed Cruise/Long-Range Speed 0.81 / 0.75 Mach Length 56 ft 0 in 
Takeoff distance  4,400 ft / 1,353 m Wing span 50 ft 11 in

Learjet 85

bombardier learjet 85

The Bombardier Learjet, introduced in 2008, was designed to fill a niche between the smaller Learjet Family jets and the larger Challenger Family jets.

It was a clean sheet design, and the design goals for the plane were a high-speed cruise and a range of up to 3,000 nautical miles. Due to financial difficulties, Bombardier halted production of the Learjet 85 in 2015.

Bombardier 415 

Bombardier 415

Launched in 1991, the Bombardier Canadair 415 is an amphibious aircraft, and the plane flew for the first time in 1993. The older Canadair CL-215 aircraft, designed expressly for this use, was replaced by the aerial firefighting CL-415.

Four water tanks with a combined capacity of 6,137 L are in the main fuselage compartment. CL-415 uses two hydraulically powered scoops beneath the hull step; tanks replenish while the aircraft is in flight and skimming over the water.

The Bombardier Canadair 415 aircraft can drop nine tank loads of water on fire during a three-hour firefighting operation before returning to base to refuel.

FAQs – Bombardier Plane Types and Models

Question: What Country Owns Bombardier?

Answer: Bombardier is a Canadian company based in Quebec.

Question: Does Bombardier Still Make Airplanes?

Answer: Yes, they are currently producing business jet aircraft. In the past, Bombardier made other aircraft types, but now they are only focused on business jets. 

Question: Are Bombardier Planes Good?

Answer: Yes, throughout their history, Bombardier has always succeeded in developing competitive aircraft. They also carry the heritage of Canadair, and their business jets are among the best in the world.

Recommended Reads:

References:

Challenger Family

  • Bloomberg . “Bloomberg Businessweek October 19, 2015 .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 Oct. 2015, https://archive.org/details/Bloomberg_Businessweek_October_19_2015/page/n51/mode/1up?q=%22challenger+650%22.
  • “Challenger 650 | Bombardier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, 1 Aug. 2017, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/aircraft/challenger-650#bba-pdp-section-5.
  • Pope, Stephen. “Bombardier Launches Challenger 650 – FLYING Magazine.” FLYING Magazine, www.flyingmag.com, 20 Oct. 2014, https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft-jets-bombardier-launches-challenger-650/.
  • “Flight International July 27, 2015 .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 2015, https://archive.org/details/Flight_International_July_27_2015/page/n17/mode/1up?q=%22challenger+350%22&view=theater.
  • “Bombardier’s Award-Winning Challenger 350 Aircraft Reaches 300 Deliveries Faster than Any Other Medium or Large Jet in History | Bombardier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, 11 July 2019, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/news/bombardiers-award-winning-challenger-350-aircraft-reaches-300-deliveries-faster-any-other.
  • “Challenger 350 – Fun To Fly.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/challenger-350-fun-fly. Accessed 6 Aug. 2022.
  • Bergqvist, Pia. “Bombardier Launches Challenger 350 – FLYING Magazine.” FLYING Magazine, www.flyingmag.com, 21 May 2013, https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft-jets-bombardier-launches-challenger-350/.
  • “Challenger 3500 | Bombardier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, 31 Aug. 2021, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/aircraft/challenger-3500#bba-pdp-section-5.
  • Boatman, Julie. “Bombardier Unveils the Challenger 3500 – FLYING Magazine.” FLYING Magazine, www.flyingmag.com, 15 Sept. 2021, https://www.flyingmag.com/bombardier-unveils-challenger-3500/.
  • “Bombardier Introduces the Challenger 3500 Jet – Skies Mag.” Skies Mag, skiesmag.com, 17 Sept. 2021, https://skiesmag.com/news/bombardier-introduces-challenger-3500/.

Global 5500 – 6500

  • Pickler, Ronald A. “Canadair : The First 50 Years .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 1995, https://archive.org/details/canadairfirst50y0000pick/page/331/mode/1up?q=global+express.
  • “Global 5500 | Bombardier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, 17 May 2018, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/aircraft/global-5500#bba-pdp-section-5.
  • “Bombardier Global 5500 Enters Service; $46 Million Private Jet.” Business Insider, www.businessinsider.com, https://www.businessinsider.com/bombardier-global-5500-enters-service-46-million-private-jet-2020-7#known-as-the-bombardier-vision-flight-deck-the-business-end-of-the-jet-offers-high-definition-displays-and-traditional-w-shaped-control-yokes-for-pilots-16. Accessed 3 Aug. 2022.
  • Mark, Rob. “Bombardier Launches Two New Business Jets at EBACE – FLYING Magazine.” FLYING Magazine, www.flyingmag.com, 29 May 2018, https://www.flyingmag.com/bombardier-launches-two-new-business-jets-at-ebace/.
  • “Pearl 15 | Rolls-Royce.” Pearl 15 | Rolls-Royce, www.rolls-royce.com, 23 Dec. 2019, https://www.rolls-royce.com/products-and-services/civil-aerospace/business-aviation/pearl-15.aspx#section-overview.
  • “More Range, More Service from Bombardier – AOPA.” More Range, More Service from Bombardier – AOPA, www.aopa.org, 21 Oct. 2019, https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2019/october/21/more-range-more-service-from-bombardier.

Global 7500 – 8000

  • “Bombardier’s Flight Test Vehicle Breaks the Sound Barrier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/bombardiers-flight-test-vehicle-breaks-sound-barrier. Accessed 4 Aug. 2022.
  • “Global 7500 | Bombardier.” Bombardier, businessaircraft.bombardier.com, 17 May 2018, https://businessaircraft.bombardier.com/en/aircraft/global-7500#bba-pdp-section-5.
  • PwC. The Economic Footprint of the Global 7500 Program in Quebec and Canada . PwC, 0 Dec. 2021.
  • “Passport Engine | GE Aviation.” Passport Engine | GE Aviation, www.geaviation.com, https://www.geaviation.com/propulsion/regional-business/passport. Accessed 4 Aug. 2022.

Airplanes Produced in Past 

  • Pickler, Ronald A. “Canadair : The First 50 Years .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 1995, https://archive.org/details/canadairfirst50y0000pick/page/331/mode/1up?q=global+express.
  • Szurovy, Geza. “Executive Jets .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 1998, https://archive.org/details/executivejets0000szur/page/67/mode/1up?q=challenger+600.
  • “Quick Look: Global Express – AOPA.” Quick Look: Global Express – AOPA, www.aopa.org, 19 Dec. 2013, https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2013/december/19/quick-look-global-express.
  • “Bombardier Aerospace Delivers First Challenger 300 Business Jet – News | Bombardier.” Bombardier, bombardier.com, 6 Aug. 2022, https://bombardier.com/en/media/news/bombardier-aerospace-delivers-first-challenger-300-business-jet.
  • “Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft, 2004-2005.” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 2004, https://archive.org/details/janesallworldsai0000unse_y5y3/page/53/mode/1up?q=challenger+300&view=theater.
  • “Quick Look: Bombardier Challenger 300 – AOPA.” Quick Look: Bombardier Challenger 300 – AOPA, www.aopa.org, 1 July 2017, https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2017/july/pilot/turbine-bombardier-challenger
  • “Facts & Figures: Bombardier C Series » SWISS Blog.” SWISS Blog, blog.swiss.com, 31 May 2018, https://blog.swiss.com/en/2018/05/facts-figures-bombardier-c-series/.
  • MacDonald, Larry. The Bombardier Story : From Snowmobiles to Global Transportation Powerhouse . 2nd ed., Wiley, 2013.
  • Bombardier. “C Series Brochure – BOMBARDIER – PDF Catalogs .” C Series Brochure – BOMBARDIER – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure, pdf.aeroexpo.online, https://pdf.aeroexpo.online/pdf/bombardier/c-series-brochure/169445-100.html. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • “History of the Airbus A220 Bombardier CSeries Plane.” Business Insider, www.businessinsider.com, https://www.businessinsider.com/history-of-the-airbus-a220-bombardier-cseries-plane-2020-2#the-cseries-program-was-officially-launched-by-canadian-aircraft-manufacturer-bombardier-in-2008-at-the-farnborough-international-airshow-in-england-1. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • “Bombardier Concludes Sale of the CRJ Series Regional Jet Program to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries – News | Bombardier.” Bombardier, bombardier.com, 11 Aug. 2022, https://bombardier.com/en/media/news/bombardier-concludes-sale-crj-series-regional-jet-program-mitsubishi-heavy-industries.
  • “Q Series – BOMBARDIER – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure.” Q Series – BOMBARDIER – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure, pdf.aeroexpo.online, https://pdf.aeroexpo.online/pdf/bombardier/q-series/169445-9492.html. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • Huber, Mark. “Learjet 60 | Business Jet Traveler.” Business Jet Traveler, www.bjtonline.com, 4 Aug. 2008, https://www.bjtonline.com/business-jet-news/learjet-60.
  • “Bombardier Learjet 60 Brochure, Performance, Market, Operating Costs.” Guardian Jet, www.guardianjet.com, https://www.guardianjet.com/jet-aircraft-online-tools/aircraft-brochure.cfm?m=Bombardier-Learjet-60-59. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • “Learjet 45 Specifications, Cabin Dimensions, Performance.” GlobalAir.Com, www.globalair.com, https://www.globalair.com/aircraft-for-sale/specifications?specid=26. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • “LEARJET 45 | SKYbrary Aviation Safety.” LEARJET 45 | SKYbrary Aviation Safety, skybrary.aero, https://skybrary.aero/aircraft/lj45. Accessed 14 Aug. 2022.
  • Szurovy, Geza. “Learjets : Geza Szurovy .” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 1996, https://archive.org/details/learjets00szur/page/85/mode/1up?q=60&view=theater.
  • Frawley, Gerard. “The International Directory of Civil Aircraft, 2003/2004.” Internet Archive, archive.org, 0 0 2003, https://archive.org/details/internationaldir0000fraw_q7f4/page/67/mode/1up?q=learjet+40.
  • “Bombardier Aerospace Launches Learjet 40 XR High-Performance Light Jet – News | Bombardier.” Bombardier, bombardier.com, 14 Aug. 2022, https://bombardier.com/en/media/news/bombardier-aerospace-launches-learjet-40-xr-high-performance-light-jet.
  • “LEARJET 70 – BOMBARDIER – Page – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure.” LEARJET 70 – BOMBARDIER – Page – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure, pdf.aeroexpo.online, https://pdf.aeroexpo.online/pdf/bombardier/learjet-70/169445-8-_2.html. Accessed 15 Aug. 2022.
  • Goyer, Robert. “Learjet Launches Learjet 70, Learjet 75 – FLYING Magazine.” FLYING Magazine, www.flyingmag.com, 14 May 2012, https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft-jets-learjet-launches-learjet-70-learjet-75/.
  • “Bombardier Canadair 415 Superscooper – Aerospace Technology.” Bombardier Canadair 415 Superscooper – Aerospace Technology, www.aerospace-technology.com, https://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/bombardier_415/. Accessed 15 Aug. 2022.
Latest posts by Mehmet Atalay (see all)
Scroll to Top