On January 22, Bombardier's newest wide-body business jet, the Challenger 605, completed its first flight.

Departing from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, captain Frank Magnusson, co-pilot Jacques Thibaudeau and project flight test engineer Mick Mansfield took the aircraft an altitude of 41,000 feet, reaching a maximum speed of 420 knots.

"It was a great flight. We spent over three hours in the air and the aircraft performed superbly," said Magnusson. "The new flight

deck is fantastic. Pilots will truly appreciate the large LCD screens, their multi-function flexibility

and the immediate access to critical flight information."

During the flight, the crew tested basic system functionality, as well as handling, avionics and flight controls. At 30,000 feet, the team performed engine, environmental control and pressurisation checks. Further test were successfully completed at FL410.

The Challenger 605 is due to enter service in the third quarter of 2007. It will feature Rockwell Collins'

Pro Line 21 avionics suite, including four 10 by 12 inch LCD displays.

Bombardier states that the aeroplane will include Rockwell Collins' Integrated Flight Information System (IFIS) as standard equipment, with electronic charts which will enable pilots to call up approach plates, airport diagrams and procedures.