The Challenger 600 series of aircraft originated in 1976, from the LearStar 600, a concept that the founder of Learjet, Bill Lear, presented to Canadair. Canadair was the original builder of the Challenger series of aircraft before Bombardier purchased Canadair.
The 601-3A is an upgraded version of the Challenger 601-1A. It is equipped with upgraded GE CF34-3A engines.
The 601-3A first flew on September 28, 1986.