Bombardier Aerospace has launched the Challenger 605 corporate shuttle aircraft. Bombardier says it represents is the next major step in the evolution of its flagship Challenger business jet series and it features one of the most advanced cockpits available, a more spacious, restyled interior and an increase in payload capacity of 200 pounds.

"The original Challenger aircraft was built to meet the needs of discerning business and government leaders and quickly became the backbone of the world's most esteemed corporate fleets," said president and ceo Pierre Beaudoin.

"The CL605 combines the proven platform and reliability of its predecessor, with improved technology and enhanced comfort. The best value proposition in the large business jet class just became better."

The aircraft's cabin is redesigned to provide more headroom and cabin volume and includes LED lighting throughout. The windows have been enlarged and relocated, and window reveal designs boost the amount of natural light and increase the viewing angle. A new galley design offers increased storage capacity.

A digital, ethernet-based, cabin management system includes touch-screen controls in both the galley and at the vip location. In addition, it enables optional features such as audio/video on demand, and supports optional high-speed connectivity for e-mailing and web browsing.

The Challenger 605's flight deck features the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, which is fully configurable and offers pilots access to flight information. The integrated avionics package includes four 10 inch by 12 inch vertically aligned LCD screens, increasing the display area by 55 per cent over the current flight deck and improving the colour and clarity of the visuals.

It includes the Rockwell Collins Integrated Flight Information System (IFIS) as standard equipment. The advanced features of the Rockwell Collins IFIS enables electronic charts, allowing pilots to call up approach plates, airport diagrams and procedures, such as standard instrument departures and standard terminal arrival routes, via customisable multi-function displays. The system also allows the aircraft's position to be overlaid on navigation charts.

The flight deck is also equipped with a co-pilot side display touch screen, which enables a second copy of electronic charts to allow for 'paperless' operations. Driven by the cabin electronic system, it also provides cabin system annunciations and backup galley control for the cabin system.

First flight is scheduled for first quarter of 2006. Certification by Transport Canada is expected in fourth quarter of 2006, with the first Challenger 605 jet scheduled to enter service in the third quarter of 2007. The list price for the aircraft is US$26.7 million.