Bombardier is to introduce high-speed Viasat Ka-band connectivity aboard the Challenger 350 and 300 series aircraft . With service packages offering the fastest available download speeds in the super mid-size segment, Bombardier said this will be available on new and in-service Challenger 350 aircraft, as well as on all in-service Challenger 300-series aircraft and will begin to become available later this year.

“The Challenger 350 aircraft stays on top because it’s the best, and these new features set this business jet even further apart from competitors,” said Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Customers prefer this aircraft because it offers performance without compromise and a cabin experience you can’t find anywhere else in this category.”

Bombardier is also updating the user interface for the cabin management system on the Challenger 350. Taking inspiration from the design of the Global 7500, the system will use side ledge touchscreens and a new specifically designed app. Customers will also have an expanded cabin design selection, the Canadian OEM said.

Bombardier has made several other recent enhancements to the Challenger 350 aircraft, including sound-proofing technology, an available Head-up Display (HUD) and Enhanced Vision System (EVS). Also, a performance improvement package allows the aircraft to fly up to 1,500 nautical miles farther than before out of short runways.

Bombardier said: “With a, seats full, tanks full, 3,200-nautical-mile range, the Challenger 350 business jet can connect New York to London or Paris to Dubai nonstop [under certain operating conditions] with a smooth ride at the lowest direct operating costs in its category.”