Bombardier secures $1.18B order for 40 Challenger 3500 jets from Vista

Bombardier announced Wednesday that longtime customer Vista and its commonly controlled entities have placed firm orders for 40 Challenger 3500 business jets, a deal valued at $1.18 billion based on 2026 list prices. The agreement also includes options for an additional 120 aircraft. If all options are exercised, the total value of the potential 160-aircraft order would reach $4.72 billion, according to the company. Bombardier President and CEO Éric Martel said the order reflects continued demand for the super-midsize Challenger 3500, citing its performance, reliability, and cabin features. "These significant orders are a testament to how well this aircraft serves our customers," Martel said in a statement, adding that Vista has been a Bombardier customer since it began operations. Thomas Flohr, founder and chairman of Vista, described the agreement as a long-term investment in fleet growth. "We are continuing to build the fleet our Members will rely on over the next decade, not reacting to short-term cycles, but investing with clarity, scale, and discipline," Flohr said. Bombardier said the Challenger 3500 surpassed 100 deliveries in 2024, becoming the fastest-growing platform to reach that milestone in the super-midsize category. The aircraft has a reported dispatch reliability rate exceeding 99.8% and is designed to offer lower direct operating costs within its segment. The jet incorporates features derived from Bombardier's Global family of aircraft, including the company's Nuage seating system and cabin technologies such as voice control, 4K entertainment, and wireless charging. Bombardier, based in Montreal, designs and manufactures business aircraft in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The company said more than 5,200 Bombardier aircraft are currently in service worldwide. Vista, headquartered in Dubai, provides global business aviation services through its subsidiaries, including VistaJet and XO. The company employs more than 4,000 people and offers subscription, membership, and on-demand flight services worldwide. RELATED ARTICLES:Bombardier delivers first Global 8000 as world's fastest business jet enters serviceBombardier announces leadership appointments geared toward long-term strategic growthBombardier to send 6 Global 6500 to Canadian Air Force