The launch customer for the Bombardier Challenger 300 had his first glimpse of the aircraft yesterday as it made its Dubai debut.
HH Sheikh Saleh bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, chairman of the emirate of Fujairah's department of Industry and Economy, was on hand to take delivery of the super midsize business jet which will begin service within weeks.
Sheikh Saleh, a pilot himself and owner of a Learjet 60, explained his reasons for choosing the Challenger 300. "The fact that I can fly to North America from Riyadh with one stop, and gain more flexible access to Asia and Australia were very appealing to me.
Best-in-class
"The non-stop capability, combined with the advanced technology incorporated into the aircraft were key factors in my decision."
With a range of 3,100nm (5,700km) the Challenger 300 – developed from a clean sheet – can fly non-stop between city pairs such as Dubai and Bangkok, Riyadh and London. The aircraft can carry eight passengers in its 28.6ft (8.7m) cabin.
Handing over the aircraft, Bombardier's Mike Fahey, regional vice-president Sales Middle East and Africa, Business Aircraft, claimed regional interest in the aircraft was growing.
"As the aircraft approaches entry into service it is garnering increasing sales interest throughout the region. Operators recognise its outstanding features such as the best-in-class cabin, fast long-range capability, built-in reliability and state-of-the-art avionics."
Source: Flight Daily News
