Challenger 604 vs Falcon 50EX
Challenger 604 and Falcon 50EX are closely matched, each topping 2 of 7 metrics.
The Bombardier Aviation Challenger 604 (introduced 1996) and the Dassault Aviation Falcon 50EX (introduced 1996) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. Both are business jets, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Challenger 604 has the advantage. The spec-by-spec breakdown below is followed by a mission-fit read and a buyer's recommendation.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
Challenger 604 vs Falcon 50EX: the key differences
- The Challenger 604 delivers 25% more range (Challenger 604: 4,027 nm; Falcon 50EX: 3,225 nm).
- The Challenger 604 and Falcon 50EX are evenly matched on cruise speed, both at 459 kt.
- The Challenger 604 and Falcon 50EX are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 9 seats.
- The Challenger 604 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (47,600 lbs versus 40,780 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the Challenger 604 runs 2 engines against 3 on the Falcon 50EX — a factor in redundancy, maintenance scope and operating cost.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The Challenger 604 is the stronger fit for long-haul and transatlantic missions — its 4,027 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The Falcon 50EX, at 3,225 nm, is better matched to transcontinental missions, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the Falcon 50EX's range, the Challenger 604's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the Challenger 604 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Falcon 50EX can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
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Challenger 604 vs Falcon 50EX: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Challenger 604 or the Falcon 50EX?
The Challenger 604 has the longer published range — 4,027 nm versus 3,225 nm for the Falcon 50EX.
Is the Challenger 604 or the Falcon 50EX the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Challenger 604 is the larger aircraft — 47,600 lbs versus 40,780 lbs for the Falcon 50EX.
Should I buy the Challenger 604 or the Falcon 50EX?
On published specifications the Challenger 604 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The Falcon 50EX can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the Challenger 604 vs Falcon 50EX?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.