Austrian-based VistaJet has allocated a key London City airport role to the 200th Challenger 300 to be delivered by Bombardier. The aircraft, received by VistaJet in July along with a Challenger 605 and Challenger 850, entered service on 1 August this year.

Bing Chen, VistaJet ceo, says: "The Challenger 605 steep approach capability is key to access at London City. The plan is that it will focus on meeting the increasing demand linking business and government leaders to the heart of London's financial district."

Chen says the Challenger 605 and the company's Learjet 40XR aircraft are an "ideal combination" for clients using London City. To use the airport an aircraft must demonstrate its ability to be flown safely at a 5.5-degree or greater approach angle, take off and land on the airport's 4,327 ft runway, and meet the local noise requirements. The Challenger 605 received approval for steep approach and landing in 2007.

Eric Martel, vp and gm, Challenger and Global, says the 200th delivery represents a "fantastic milestone." VistaJet's plans to establish a powerful presence in Moscow were reported in EBAN July.