Bombardier Challenger 601-3R Specifications

Background/History

The Challenger 601 has evolved considerably from its predecessor, the original Challenger 600. When the first Challenger 601 was certificated in March 1983, the most notable improvement was the replacement of the 600’s troublesome Lycoming ALF 502 engines with the more reliable GE CF34-series engines. This made up for most of the 600’s shortcomings, but other improvements such as drag-reducing winglets and increased fuel capacity have combined to give the 601 the transoceanic range originally envisioned for the Challenger series. The CL-601-3A, with the newer -3A variant of the GE CF34 turbofans, made its first flight in September 1986 and was certificated in April 1987. The Challenger 601-3R, which uses the -3A1 variant of the GE CF34, replaced the Challenger 601-3A in 1993. It has as standard equipment some of the features that were optional on the 601-3A, including the tailcone fuel tank. Production of the 601-3R continued through 1995 with a total of 59 aircraft manufactured and delivered.

Power

The Challenger 601-3R is powered by two GE CF34-3A1 two-spool, high-bypass ratio turbofans rated at 8,729 lbs. thrust each at takeoff. Inspection interval on the engines is 6,000 hours.

Avionics

The panel of the Challenger 601-3R is designed around the Honeywell SPZ-8000 integrated digital avionics package, with left- and right-side primary flight displays and a center multifunction screen, dual Collins VHF 22B, dual VIR 32, dual ADF 462, dual DME 42, triple Laseref INS, dual FMS 800, and Honeywell WU 870 color weather radar.

Design Features

The Challenger 601-3R is a twin turbofan, long range, wide-body business aircraft configured as a cantilever low, swept-wing monoplane. It has retractable tricycle landing gear with dual wheels on each unit and a trailing link main gear design. Aerodynamic refinements, such as the addition of drag-reducing winglets, have been combined with increased fuel capacity to give the 601 the transoceanic range originally planned for the Challenger series. The 601-3R incorporates a fully-automated digital glass cockpit and exceptionally roomy interior to ensure Canadair’s place in the world-class, large business jet market.

Accomodations

The Challenger 601-3R has a maximum occupancy of 19, but typical configurations accommodate 10-12 passengers with a deluxe galley and lavatory, and amenities appropriate for the relatively long leg times expected of an aircraft of this class. The large fuselage cross section of the Challenger yields a cabin width of over 8 feet, a length of over 28 feet and a standup height of slightly over 6 feet in a cabin that is noted for its low noise levels.