Press Release
Issued by Nextant Aerospace.
October 9, 2017
Nextant Aerospace, builders of the 400XTi, G90XT, and newly announced Challenger 604XT, announced that it has embarked on Phase II of the 604XT program, which will include both a performance enhancement to the existing airframe and an entirely new cabin design.
"Since launching the 604 Fusion cockpit program at EBACE in conjunction with Rockwell Collins and Bombardier, the overall response to the Challenger program has been exceptional," stated Jay Heublein, executive VP for Nextant Aerospace. "Now, with a large portion of the certification effort related to the cockpit behind us, we will embark on Phase II of our overall solution for this airframe, which will target a 500-nautical mile range increase combined with a radically new cabin design concept that takes advantage of the latest in interior design trends and advanced connectivity technology."
Mr. Heublein also added, "The new cabin will feature a redesigned entryway to the plane which includes a solid door closure between the air stair and the galley designed to help reduce exterior wind noise. Once in the entryway, the well-lit galley will transition directly into an all-new, ultra-modern media room in the forward half of the cabin that takes advantage of the latest in connectivity technology," stated Heublein. "The rear half of the cabin will be separated from the forward half and will feature new, VIP seating with a full-width conference/dining table. The interior will also benefit from an all new composite shell and acoustic/thermal insulation kit to further enhance the overall cabin experience." The company unveiled a rendering of the new interior during their press conference at NBAA.
With regards to the performance enhancement, senior Nextant executive, Mark O'Donnell explained, "We now have a pathway that will allow us to obtain a 500nm range increase for the 604 airframe. After years of market feedback, we believe that this improvement to the range of the plane will serve as a true game-changer for consumers. We will now be able to link New York with London on a non-stop basis all the time, or Boston with Western Europe in both directions. Now operators that need reliable trans-Atlantic range will have a new option at a far superior price point relative to competitive aircraft."
O'Donnell went on to offer, "Most of the range improvement will take place via a significant drag reduction and wing extension program. Our goal is to combine this with a service-ceiling increase to Flight Level 450 which in addition to increasing the fuel efficiency will free operators from the traffic and weather they have been tied to in the past at lower altitudes."
At its press conference, Nextant targeted an 18 to 24-month certification time frame, but was clear that customers may opt for the cockpit upgrade and then add the performance enhancements at a future inspection without significant disruption to the operation of the aircraft.
