Austrian operator International Jet Management (IJM) has taken delivery of a Challenger 350, which it will manage for a private owner. “Everything with the delivery went well. We had some delays because EASA certification was missing, so that put us back several months. But the delivery itself was smooth and easy,” says ceo Felix Feller.

“We have a very good reputation in the market, and the owner of IJM wanted to have this type in Europe operated by ourselves.”

Feller says that the most attractive feature of the Challenger 350 is the fact that it is a new product. “In fact it is not a totally new aircraft, because the 300 was the innovative airframe in this class of aircraft. Bombardier has added upgrades for the 350, including more powerful engines and fully updated avionics.

“When clients come to us, first of all they want to have the newest aircraft available in terms of year of manufacture. When the aircraft was announced they saw articles in the press. Following that, they are of course very happy to go for that aircraft.”

He adds that there is no significant price different between the CL350 and its predecessor, but the fact that it is the latest incarnation makes all the difference to the owner.

He concludes: “I believe this aircraft will be popular in Europe. Soon a few Challenger 300s will come of age and require replacement. If the owner was happy with this type of aircraft, he will definitely go for a 350. I am sure we will take more 350s. Everybody knows that we were one of the first in Europe, and for this reason I am sure more will follow.”