Bombardier Delivers Challenger 650 Aircraft to Swiss Air-Rescue Rega

Bombardier has delivered the first Challenger 650 aircraft converted into an air ambulance outfitted with intensive care units, to long-standing customer Swiss Air-Rescue Rega.

The Swiss air ambulance service will take possession of two more Challenger 650 aircraft this year, replacing its earlier-generation Challenger 604 fleet.

"It is incredibly rewarding for us that Bombardier jets help save so many lives while in service with Rega, and we are thrilled that they will continue to do so for many years to come," said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "The Challenger 650 aircraft is an ideal air ambulance vehicle, with the reliability needed when emergencies arise and a smooth ride that is essential when delivering in-flight medical care."

Swiss Air-Rescue Rega, a non-profit foundation and one of the world's pioneers in aeromedical evacuation, carries out air-rescue operations in Switzerland with a fleet of 17 rescue helicopters and repatriates patients from abroad with three ambulance jets.

A long-standing Bombardier customer, Rega acquired its first Challenger aircraft in 1982 and has operated Challenger aircraft ever since.

"Bombardier's Challenger aircraft have more than proven their ability to carry out critical missions over the years," said Ernst Kohler, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board of Rega, which will take possession of two more Challenger 650 aircraft in 2018. "With these three new, high-performing air ambulances we are ensuring that Rega can continue to provide reliable and professional assistance to patients all over the world throughout the next 15 years."

The Challenger 650 aircraft has a range of 4,000 nautical miles.

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