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It looks like somebody out there is celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas in style when it comes to aviation. Bombardier announced just before the big holiday that it had received an order for a dozen Challenger 3500 aircraft.
The cutting-edge super-midsize private jets are a bit large for stuffing into stockings, and given the backlog for new aircraft, they will not be delivered until well after next Christmas.
Bombardier said in a statement that deliveries for the planes are set to begin in the second half of 2025. The 12 planes come with a price tag of $326.4 million.
"Bombardier is proud that the Challenger 3500 jet sparks such confidence as the aircraft of choice for a vast majority of operators around the world, and continues to meet and exceed the expectations of its discerning clientele," said Éric Martel, President and CEO of Bombardier. "The Challenger 3500 jet is truly a force to be reckoned with, and this order is a clear demonstration that this platform offers the exceptional experience that clients are seeking."
RELATED STORIES:Bombardier bringing Global 7500, Challenger 3500 to Dubai Air Show Bombardier Challenger 3500 enters into service Bombardier Challenger 3500 wins 2022 Red Dot AwardThe first Challenger 3500 entered into service in September 2022, with the first production aircraft delivered later that year.The aircraft includes many of the features available in the Bombardier Global line as standard equipment, including Bombardier's exclusive Nuage seat.
The Challenger 3500 can climb up to 43,000 feet and can go as far as 3,400 nm nonstop range. With improved field performance including steep-approach capabilities, over its predecessor the Challenger 350, the Challenger 3500 aircraft can operate in and out of some of the most challenging airports around the world, such as Aspen, London or Lugano.
Some of the unique elements in the Challenger 3500 aircraft include the industry's first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, the first wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class. In addition, an autothrottle system comes standard-equipped.
Also in 2022, the aircraft won one of the most sought-after international distinctions for design and innovation excellence, the Red Dot: Best of the Best Award.