NetJets' first Challenger 650 enters operational service

The Bombardier Challenger 650 has entered operational service with US fractional ownership provider NetJets. The delivery of the large-cabin business jet, serial number 6053 – which was added to the Federal Aviation Administration register on 14 December – marks the first of seven units destined for the operator before the end of 2015. It also marks the 1000th Challenger 600-series delivery since the first aircraft entered service, in 1980.

Columbus, Ohio-based NetJets unveiled its first Challenger 650 at the National Business Aviation Association convention in November – a year after the aircraft's launch – featuring its bespoke Signature Series interior.

Bombardier Aerospace

NetJets has an order for up to 75 of the $32.4 million, 4,000nm (7,408 km)-range aircraft, which will eventually be added to its European fleet.

The Challenger 650 is a refreshed version of the nine-year-old Challenger 605, featuring more powerful General Electric CF34-3B engines, a Bombardier Vision flightdeck – based on the Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics system – and a revamped interior.