Heavy Jet - Legacy Production
Bombardier Challenger 604: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
Bombardier
Bombardier Challenger 604: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Bombardier Challenger 604, produced from 1995 to 2006, is the best-selling variant of the Challenger 600-series family and represents Bombardier's modernized large-cabin business jet platform. Introduced in 1995, the 604 was a major upgrade of the Challenger 601-3R design, incorporating more powerful General Electric CF34-3B engines (8,729 lbf flat rated, or 9,220 lbf with automatic power reserve), increased fuel capacity, completely new undercarriage with higher takeoff and landing weights, structural improvements to wings and tail, and an all-new Rockwell Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit (replacing the 601-3A/3R's EFIS displays). First flight with CF-34-3A engines was September 1994, first flight with CF-34-3B engines on March 17, 1995, with Transport Canada certification granted September 1995, and first delivery January 1996. Powered by twin General Electric CF34-3B engines, the Challenger 604 delivers 4,024-4,027 nautical miles of range, Mach 0.82 maximum cruise speed (459 kts high-speed, 442 kts typical), and a 41,000 ft service ceiling. The aircraft is operated by two pilots with seating for up to 19 passengers (10-12 typical executive). The wide-body Challenger cabin (8 ft 2 in width, 6 ft 1 in stand-up height) was retained from the foundational Challenger 600 design. With over 4 million flight hours and 99%+ dispatch reliability, the Challenger 604 became the best-selling Challenger variant in the family's history. Total production: 365 aircraft. Pre-owned market today: $4 million to $10 million depending on year and condition.
For operators wanting wide-body Challenger heritage with proven General Electric CF34 reliability, Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit, and substantial pre-owned cost savings, the Challenger 604 represents the best-selling variant of one of business aviation's most successful platforms.
Challenger 604 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Heavy Jet - Legacy Production |
| Production Status | Discontinued 2006 |
| Designation | Bombardier Challenger 604 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier |
| Service Entry | 1996 (Transport Canada cert September 1995) |
| First Flight (CF-34-3A) | September 1994 |
| First Flight (CF-34-3B) | March 17, 1995 |
| Transport Canada Type Certification | September 1995 |
| First Delivery | January 1996 |
| Production Years | 1995 to 2006 |
| Total Units Built | 365 |
| Active Fleet | 363 (per Globalair) |
| Family Heritage | Challenger 600 series |
| Predecessor | Challenger 601-3R (1989-1995) |
| Successor | Challenger 605 (2006-2015) |
| Distinctive Feature | Best-selling Challenger variant in family history |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Max Certified) | 19 |
| Passengers (Typical Executive) | 10 to 12 |
| Engines | 2× General Electric CF34-3B turbofans |
| Thrust per Engine | 8,729 lbf (38.8 kN) flat rated |
| Thrust With Automatic Power Reserve (APR) | 9,220 lbf (41.0 kN) |
| Engine Improvement vs 601-3A/3R | Same basic CF-34 but 3B variant |
| Fuel Savings vs CL601-3R | 3% more fuel efficient |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins ProLine 4 Glass Cockpit |
| Industry-First Feature (For Challenger Family) | All-new Collins ProLine glass panel flightdeck |
| Total Flight Hours | 4 million+ |
| Dispatch Reliability | 99%+ |
| Max Range (NBAA IFR 4 pax) | 4,024 to 4,027 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.82 (459 kts) |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 442 kts |
| Long-Range Cruise | 424 kts |
| Service Ceiling | 41,000 ft |
| Landing Distance | 2,910 ft |
| MTOW | 32,650 lb (some sources reflect higher capacity) |
| Empty Weight | 13,567 lb |
| Cabin Length | 28 ft 3 in |
| Available Cabin Space | Nearly 17 ft |
| Cabin Width | 8 ft 2 in (98 in) |
| Cabin Height | 6 ft 1 in (73 in - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 1,150 cu ft |
| Cabin Windows | More than predecessor 601 (2 more added) |
| Total Baggage Volume | 130 cu ft (in-flight accessible) |
| Original New Price (Era) | $20-25 million |
| Pre-Owned Range (2025) | $4,000,000 to $10,000,000 |
History as the Best-Selling Challenger
The Challenger 604 represents the commercial pinnacle of the Challenger 600-series family, with the most aircraft built (365 total) and the highest dispatch reliability of any Challenger variant.
Platform timeline:
- 1986: Bombardier acquires Canadair
- 1992-1994: Challenger 604 development
- September 1994: First flight (CF-34-3A engines)
- March 17, 1995: First flight (CF-34-3B engines)
- September 1995: Transport Canada Type Certification
- January 1996: First Delivery
- 1996-2006: Production run (365 aircraft)
- December 2005: U.S. Coast Guard acquires single Challenger 604 (MRC2A program)
- 2006: Challenger 604 production ends
- 2006: Challenger 605 succeeds (avionics + structural upgrade)
- Today: 363 in operation (per industry counts)
Key Improvements Over Challenger 601-3R
The Challenger 604 introduced substantial improvements over its predecessor:
1. More Powerful CF34-3B Engines (vs 3A on 601-3R)
The defining 604 improvement:
- 8,729 lbf flat rated thrust per engine: Reliable
- 9,220 lbf with Automatic Power Reserve (APR): For takeoff
- 3% more fuel efficient than CL601-3R engines: Operating economics
- Same CF-34 family: Worldwide established support
- Improved hot and high performance: Operational benefit
2. All-New Collins ProLine 4 Glass Cockpit
- All-new Collins ProLine glass panel flightdeck: Major modernization
- Multiple screens with primary flight displays: Modern
- Flight director/autopilot systems: Standard
- HF-9000 high-frequency radios: Standard
- Digital air data computers: Standard
- Turbulence detection radar: Standard
- Dual all-digital interface comm/nav/ident radios: Modern
3. Increased Fuel Capacity
- Higher fuel capacity: vs 601-3R
- Range capability 4,024-4,027 nm: Slightly better than 601-3R's 4,028 nm
- Better mission flexibility: Per Bombardier
4. New Undercarriage With Higher Weights
- Higher Maximum Takeoff Weight: vs 601-3R
- Higher Maximum Landing Weight: vs 601-3R
- New undercarriage: Strengthened
- Better mission capability: Per Bombardier
5. Structural Improvements to Wings and Tail
- Strengthened structures: vs 601-3R
- Improved aerodynamics: Modern
- Better service life: Per Bombardier
6. Modernized Cabin
- 2 additional cabin windows: More natural light vs 601 series
- Updated interior finishes: Modern
- Improved cabin acoustics: Extremely low noise levels
- Deluxe galley and lavatory: Premium
Cabin Interior
The Challenger 604 cabin features the proven wide-body Challenger design:
| Cabin Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 28 ft 3 in |
| Available Cabin Space | Nearly 17 ft |
| Cabin Width | 8 ft 2 in (98 in) |
| Cabin Height | 6 ft 1 in (73 in - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 1,150 cu ft |
| Cabin Windows | More than 601 series (+2 windows) |
| Total Baggage | 130 cu ft (in-flight accessible) |
Standard 10-12 Passenger Configuration
- Double-Club Layout: Standard
- Forward Club + Half Club + Divan: Alternative
- Up to 19 Passengers: Maximum (high-density)
- Forward Galley: Standard
- Aft Lavatory: Standard
- In-Flight Baggage Access: Standard
- Standard 10-12 Passengers Executive: Typical
Cabin Features
- Wide-body 8'2" cabin width: Industry-leading
- 6'1" stand-up cabin: Premium feature
- 1,150 cu ft cabin volume: Substantial
- Extremely low noise levels: Per Bombardier
- Deluxe galley: Standard
- Premium positioning: Wide-body comfort
- In-flight accessible 130 cu ft baggage: Standard
- Holds 12 suitcases + hand luggage: Operational utility
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.82 (459 kts) |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 442 kts |
| Long-Range Cruise | 424 kts |
| Range (NBAA IFR 4 pax) | 4,024 to 4,027 nm |
| Service Ceiling | 41,000 ft |
| Landing Distance | 2,910 ft |
Typical Mission Examples
- New York to London (3,000 nm) - achievable
- Los Angeles to Hawaii (2,556 nm) - very comfortable
- Coast-to-coast U.S.: Workhorse capability with reserves
- 8-hour non-stop flights: Standard capability
- New York to Frankfurt (3,490 nm) - achievable
Operational Reliability
- 99%+ dispatch reliability: Industry-leading
- 4+ million flight hours fleet-wide: Established proven
- Per Bombardier: "Long-range business jet market" exemplifies "advancements and reliability expected"
Engines
Two General Electric CF34-3B turbofan engines, each producing 8,729 lbf flat rated thrust (or 9,220 lbf with Automatic Power Reserve, APR).
Key features:
- GE CF-34 family: Established proven (foundation of modern Challenger lineage)
- 3% more fuel efficient than CL601-3R engines: Per Jetsplore
- Worldwide GE service network: Established support
- 5,000+ hour TBO: Standard maintenance intervals
- APR (Automatic Power Reserve): Provides 9,220 lbf for takeoff safety
Avionics: Rockwell Collins ProLine 4 Glass Cockpit
Industry-leading avionics for the era:
- All-new Collins ProLine glass panel flightdeck: First in Challenger family
- Multiple screens with primary flight displays: Modern
- Flight director/autopilot systems: Integrated
- HF-9000 high-frequency radios: Standard
- Digital air data computers: Standard
- Turbulence detection radar: Standard
- Dual all-digital interface comm/nav/ident radios: Standard
- Common modern retrofits: ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV, FANS upgrades
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel | $1,900 to $2,400 |
| Engine Reserve | $700 |
| Airframe Maintenance | $800 |
| Misc Variable | $400 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$3,800 to $4,300/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $3.7 million all-in.
99%+ dispatch reliability translates to lower operating cost vs less-reliable alternatives.
Pricing
| Year Range | Pre-Owned Price |
|---|---|
| 2003 to 2006 Challenger 604 (Final Production) | $7,000,000 to $10,000,000 |
| 2000 to 2002 Challenger 604 | $5,500,000 to $7,500,000 |
| 1995 to 1999 Challenger 604 (Early Production) | $4,000,000 to $5,500,000 |
Original new price: $20-25 million.
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- Transcontinental Operators: 4,024-4,027 nm range
- 8-Hour Non-Stop Operators: Long-range workhorse
- Bombardier Service Network Operators: Worldwide established
- Operators Valuing Wide-Body Comfort: 8'2" cabin width
- Step-Up From Smaller Bizjets: Best-value Challenger variant
- Charter Operators: 99%+ dispatch reliability
Less suited if:
- You need single-pilot certification (not certified)
- You require modern Pro Line Fusion (consider 605/650)
- You want maximum efficiency (newer engines burn less)
- You need 5,000+ nm range (consider Falcon 7X/8X, Global 6500)
- You require modern factory product support (Bombardier focuses on current production)
Pros and Cons
What the Challenger 604 Does Well
- 4,024-4,027 nm range
- Mach 0.82 max cruise (459 kts)
- 41,000 ft service ceiling
- GE CF34-3B engines (proven reliability)
- 9,220 lbf takeoff thrust with APR
- 3% more fuel efficient than 601-3R
- All-new Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit
- Wide-body 8'2" cabin width
- 6'1" stand-up cabin
- 1,150 cu ft cabin volume
- Up to 19 passengers
- Deluxe galley and lavatory
- Extremely low noise levels
- 4 million+ flight hours fleet
- 99%+ dispatch reliability
- 130 cu ft in-flight accessible baggage
- Best-selling Challenger variant (365 built)
- Bombardier worldwide service network
- 2,910 ft landing distance
- Modern undercarriage with higher MTOW
- Substantial pre-owned cost savings ($4M-$10M vs newer Challengers)
Tradeoffs to Understand
- Production ended 2006 (19+ year old airframes)
- Two-pilot operation required
- ProLine 4 dated vs current Pro Line Fusion
- Engine support aging slightly (CF-34-3B less common than current variants)
- Less efficient vs Challenger 650 modern alternatives
- Higher operating costs vs newer alternatives
- Avionics modernization often required for current airspace
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Challenger 604 different from the Challenger 601-3R?
The Challenger 604 (1995) is the modernized successor to the Challenger 601-3R (1989-1995). Key improvements: more powerful General Electric CF34-3B engines (8,729 lbf flat rated, vs 601-3R's CF-34-3A 9,140 lbf with APR providing 9,220 lbf), increased fuel capacity, new undercarriage with higher MTOW, structural improvements to wings and tail, all-new Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit (vs 601's EFIS), 2 additional cabin windows, and substantially better dispatch reliability.
How is the Challenger 604 different from the Challenger 605?
The Challenger 605 (2006-2015) is the successor with avionics and structural upgrades. Key improvements: enhanced Pro Line 21 Advanced avionics (vs 604's ProLine 4), improved cabin connectivity and entertainment, structural enhancements, and various interior refinements. The basic 8'2" wide-body cabin is retained, with the 605 representing modernization upgrades over the 604 baseline.
How is the Challenger 604 different from the Challenger 650?
The Challenger 650 (2015-Present) is the current production variant with substantially modern systems. Key improvements over the 604: modernized Collins ProLine Fusion avionics, more refined interior, improved cabin systems, structural enhancements, and various refinements. The 650 represents two generations of evolution beyond the 604, with the basic 8'2" wide-body cabin retained throughout.
How many Challenger 604s were built?
A total of 365 Challenger 604 aircraft were built during the 1995 to 2006 production run, making it the best-selling Challenger variant in the family's history. Today, 363 remain in operation per industry counts, indicating exceptional fleet retention.
Is the Challenger 604 single-pilot certified?
No. The Challenger 604 requires two pilots.
What engines power the Challenger 604?
Two General Electric CF34-3B turbofan engines, each producing 8,729 lbf flat rated thrust (or 9,220 lbf with Automatic Power Reserve). The CF-34-3B is an upgrade of the CF-34-3A used on the predecessor 601-3R, providing 3% better fuel efficiency.
What is Automatic Power Reserve (APR)?
Automatic Power Reserve (APR) is a feature on the Challenger 604's GE CF34-3B engines that provides additional thrust (9,220 lbf vs flat rated 8,729 lbf) during takeoff if needed. APR automatically increases engine thrust if one engine fails during takeoff, ensuring safe continued operations. This is a standard safety feature on modern turbofan engines.
Why is the Challenger 604 the best-selling Challenger variant?
The Challenger 604 became the best-selling Challenger variant due to a combination of factors: substantial improvements over predecessors (CF-34-3B engines, Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit, structural improvements), competitive pricing during its production era (1995-2006), exceptional 99%+ dispatch reliability, wide-body cabin comfort (8'2" width retained), and Bombardier's worldwide service network. The 365-aircraft production reflects exceptional commercial success for a heavy business jet.
The Bottom Line
The Bombardier Challenger 604 represents the commercial pinnacle of the Challenger 600-series family - the best-selling Challenger variant (365 aircraft built) with exceptional 99%+ dispatch reliability and 4+ million flight hours of fleet-proven service. With substantial improvements over the predecessor Challenger 601-3R (more powerful GE CF34-3B engines, all-new Collins ProLine 4 glass cockpit, new undercarriage with higher MTOW, structural improvements, 2 additional cabin windows), the 604 delivered modernized large-cabin business jet capability at substantial value. The proven wide-body 8'2" cabin width and 6'1" stand-up cabin continue throughout the entire modern Challenger lineage. At current pre-owned pricing of $4M to $10M (vs $20-25M original), the platform offers exceptional wide-body Challenger heritage value with proven reliability. Bombardier worldwide service network continues to support the 604 platform.
Quantum Jets supports the platform across private jet charter, private jet rental, private jet card programs, aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, and aircraft leasing structures.
Talk to a Quantum Jets broker for Challenger 604 market intelligence and pre-buy diligence.
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Related Aircraft Guides:
- Canadair Challenger 600: Foundational Predecessor (1980-1983)
- Challenger 601-3A: Earlier Variant (EFIS Era)
- Challenger 601-3R: Direct Predecessor (Extended Range)
- Challenger 605: Direct Successor (2006-2015)
- Challenger 650: Current Production (2015-Present)
- Challenger 850: Stretched Variant
Production of the Bombardier Challenger 604 ended in 2006. All acquisitions are pre-owned. Bombardier provides worldwide parts/support. Specifications accurate as of 2026.