Bombardier Challenger 3500 vs Cessna Citation Sovereign
The Bombardier Challenger 3500 and Cessna Citation Sovereign+ are both commonly positioned in the super-midsize business jet category, though the Challenger 3500 is often seen as leaning slightly more toward a “large-cabin feel” within that class thanks to its wider cabin cross-section. In range, the Challenger 3500 generally offers the longer reach, typically cited around 3,400 nautical miles, enabling more city pairs nonstop and providing more flexibility with headwinds or alternate airports. The Citation Sovereign+ is usually listed closer to about 3,200 nautical miles, still strong for the segment but with a bit less margin on longer missions. For passenger capacity, both aircraft are typically configured for about 8 to 9 passengers in standard executive layouts, with maximum seating options that can vary by operator. In practical terms, either can handle a full business group, but the Challenger 3500 tends to feel roomier and may be preferred when cabin comfort is prioritized on longer flights.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 3500 | Cessna Citation Sovereign+ |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.71 | $ 6.02 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 11 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Cessna Citation |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 3500 | Sovereign + |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 3400 | 3138 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.84 | $ 0.67 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 12 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 15950 | 12790 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 9 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,152 | $ 2,699 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Garmin G5000 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 533 | 458 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $26,950,000 | $19,730,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No |
| Total Seats | 10 | 11 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 12 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 9.3 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 9 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23338 | 25230 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | HTF73500 | PW306D |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | 6000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 16 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 7323 | 5907 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 1700 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 68.7 | 63.5 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 69 | 72.4 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | 0.7 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.2 | 5.5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 5.7 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.2 | 25.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20 | 20.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 5.1 | 3.9 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 16.6 | 17.4 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 106 | 35 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 100 |