Story ID: 
Challenger 605 Enters Flight Test
By: Gordon Gilbert
Caption: Bombardier’s Challenger 605, announced at the 2005 NBAA Convention, made a nearly 3.5-hour maiden flight on January 22 in Montreal.
Word Count: 136
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 typical. Said Magnusson: “The airplane performed flawlessly so we just kept going” and ended as sunset approached. The Challenger 605, which is replacing the 604, features Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics and upgraded cabin features, including 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. A common 604/605 type rating transition course of two days will initially be conducted in Montreal. Certification of the 605 is expected in the fourth quarter.