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/ER is an upgraded version of the Challenger 601-1A. It is equipped with upgraded GE CF34-3A engines. In 1989, the Challenger's range was further increased by the addition of a tail cone fuel tank, holding 180 gallons. The ER designation denotes additional fuel capacity.
The Challenger 601-3R was introduced in 1993. It is equipped with GE CF34-3A1 engines requiring no mandatory time between overhaul. They were “on condition” and designed to airline standards for reliability and maintainability.
The first 601-3A flew on September 28, 1986.
