Bombardier Challenger 650 vs Embraer Legacy 650e vs Gulfstream G400
The Bombardier Challenger 650 and Embraer Legacy 650E both sit in the large-cabin business jet category, while the Gulfstream G400 is a newer-generation large-cabin jet positioned a step more premium in overall capability. In range, the Challenger 650 is typically quoted around 4,000 nautical miles, the Legacy 650E slightly higher at roughly 4,200 nautical miles, and the G400 markedly longer at about 4,200 nautical miles class but generally advertised with more margin and faster long-range cruise, reflecting its newer design. For passenger capacity, all three are commonly configured for about 12 to 13 passengers in typical executive layouts; the Challenger 650 is often arranged for 10–12, the Legacy 650E for 13 (with higher-density options), and the G400 commonly for around 12, depending on cabin layout and amenities. Overall, Challenger 650 and Legacy 650E are closely matched long-standing platforms with strong cabin size for their class, while the G400 emphasizes newer avionics, performance, and range-speed efficiency.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 650 | Embraer Legacy 650E | Gulfstream G400 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | — |
| DOC / nm | $ 7.16 | $ 8.41 | — |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Total Seats | 11 | 14 | 12 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Embraer | Gulfstream |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 650 | Legacy 650E | G400 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | — |
| Max Range (nm) | 4085 | 3980 | 4200 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.80 | $ 0.70 | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 19 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | — |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 21050 | 22510 | 30650 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 12 | — |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,365 | $ 3,860 | — |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Honeywell Primus Elite | Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 470 | 458 | 539 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $32,400,000 | $26,500,000 | 34500000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | — |
| Lavatory | 2 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | — |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 | — |
| Crew Rest | Yes | No | — |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No | — |
| Total Seats | 11 | 14 | — |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 19 | — |
| Lavatory Location | FWD / AFT | AFT | — |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 8.4 | — |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 12 | — |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23000 | 21650 | — |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | — |
| Model | CF34-3B MTO | AE3007A2 | — |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | On-Condition | — |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 15 | — |
| Thrust (lbs) | 9220 | 9020 | — |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | — |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | — | 1901 | — |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 68.4 | 86.5 | — |
| Wingspan (ft) | 64.4 | 69.5 | — |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | Flat Floor | — |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.9 | 6.9 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 6 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.6 | 42.4 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20.7 | 22.2 | — |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 6.9 | 5.2 | — |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 15.4 | 30.3 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 112 | 286 | — |