This year's NBAA in Orlando occurs on the eve of the Challenger 600's 40th anniversary. This photo montage celebrates the Canadair and Bombardier business jet's first four decades, which began with its maiden flight on 8 November 1978. For all the latest NBAA coverage check out our dedicated event page
DISTRIBUTOR: TAG was an early partner, securing Middle East sales
Stan Kingsley-Jones
MILITARY: Canadian Forces took original 600 variant
Canadian Air Force
EXTENDED: Challenger 610E was false start but led to CRJ series
FlightGlobal archive
ENGINE: 601 launch with CF34 power triggered sales boom
FlightGlobal archive
500 UP: Key milestone was reached in May 2000 with 601
FlightGlobal archive
CIVIL SERVICE: 601 resplendent in Thai Airways colours in 1990s
FlightGlobal archive
POPULAR: 604 arrived in 1995 and has been the biggest seller so far
Bombardier
CABIN FEVER: Interior space and comfort has evolved greatly
Duncan Aviation
UPGRADE: 605 brought more improvements from 2007
Bombardier
AMBULANCE: Swiss Air Rescue Rega flies latest and greatest 650
FlightGlobal archive
COVER STAR: Brochures and Flight editions from 1970s and 1980s
CONTROL ROOM: Cockpit has gradually evolved with early EFIS (left) succeeded by Pro Line 4, and advanced Pro Line 21 arriving with 605 (right)
FlightGlobal archive/JetsUSA
Source: FlightGlobal.com
