Bombardier’s Challenger 605, announced at the 2005 NBAA Convention, made a nearly 3.5-hour maiden flight on January 22 in Montreal. “The first flight went very well,” pilot Frank Magnusson told AIN. “There were no surprises at all.” The length of the flight was longer than is typical. Said Magnusson, “The airplane performed flawlessly so we just kept going.” The flight ended as sunset approached.  

The Challenger 605, which is replacing the 604, includes Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics and upgraded cabin features, such as new windows that are larger and raised about five inches. Magnusson said the new avionics “looked just great, especially the electronic charts.” He also noted that production 605s will be about 200 pounds lighter than 604s.

Certification of the 605 is expected in the fourth quarter.