Bombardier Challenger 650 vs Embraer Legacy 500
The Bombardier Challenger 650 and Embraer Legacy 500 are both midsize business jets, but they emphasize slightly different strengths. The Challenger 650 is typically positioned toward the upper end of the super-midsize segment, offering a larger cabin feel and strong long-range capability. Its range is about 4,000 nautical miles, making it better suited for longer nonstop missions. Passenger capacity is commonly configured for around 8 to 12 passengers, with a maximum of roughly 12 to 13 depending on layout. The Embraer Legacy 500 is generally classified as a super-midsize jet as well, optimized for efficient transcontinental routes with a range of about 3,100 to 3,200 nautical miles. It is usually arranged for about 8 to 10 passengers, though configurations can vary. In practical terms, the Challenger 650 tends to win on range and cabin volume, while the Legacy 500 often appeals for modern systems and efficient performance on shorter long-haul legs.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 650 | Embraer Legacy 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 7.16 | $ 6.74 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Embraer |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 650 | Legacy 500 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 4085 | 3153 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.80 | $ 0.84 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 21050 | 14837 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,365 | $ 3,141 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 470 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $32,400,000 | $20,000,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 2 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | Yes | No |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No |
| Total Seats | 11 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 12 |
| Lavatory Location | FWD / AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 9.7 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23000 | 27140 |
| Connectivity | — | Gogo AVANCE L5 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 6000 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | CF34-3B MTO | HTF7500E |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 18 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 9220 | 7036 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | — | 1441 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 1963 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 68.4 | 68.1 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 64.4 | 66.5 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | Flat Floor |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.9 | 6.8 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 6 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.6 | 24.1 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20.7 | 21.2 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 6.9 | 4.7 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 15.4 | 21.3 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 112 | 45 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 110 |