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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.

SpecBombardier Challenger 3500Cessna Citation Sovereign+
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 6.71$ 6.02
Min Crew22
Total Seats1011
ManufacturerBombardierCessna Citation
Aircraft NameChallenger 3500Sovereign +
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)34003138
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.84$ 0.67
Max Cabin Seats1012
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)1595012790
Standard Cabin Seats89
Direct Operating Cost$ 3,152$ 2,699
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 AdvancedGarmin G5000
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)533458
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$26,950,000$19,730,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Lavatory1 Enclosed Flushing1 Enclosed Belted Flushing
Min Crew22
Crew RestNoNo
Jump SeatYesNo
Total Seats1011
Galley LocationFWDFWD
Max Cabin Seats1012
Lavatory LocationAFTAFT
Cabin Pressure (psi)8.89.3
Galley / RefreshmentGalleyGalley
Standard Cabin Seats89
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)2333825230
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelHTF73500PW306D
TBO (hrs)On-Condition6000
Flat RatingISA + 15ISA + 16
Thrust (lbs)73235907
No. of Engines22
Fuel Capacity (gal)1700
Dimensions
Length (ft)68.763.5
Wingspan (ft)6972.4
Aisle Step (ft)Flat Floor0.7
Cabin Width (ft)7.25.5
Cabin Height (ft)65.7
Cabin Length (ft)25.225.3
Overall Height (ft)2020.4
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)5.13.9
Cabin Length - Seating (ft)16.617.4
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)10635
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)100