Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC) has ordered a Bombardier Challenger 650 for Aero-Dienst. The aircraft will be configured as a dedicated air ambulance and is scheduled for delivery in 2026.
The new Challenger 650 will join Aero-Dienst‘s fleet, which currently includes two Dornier Do-328s and two Learjet 60XRs. General Electric CF34-3B engines will power the aircraft.
Steve Patrick, Vice President of Bombardier Defense, stated: “Our Challenger aircraft are distinguished by their class-leading reliability, flexibility, and versatility—essential features for rapidly responding to emergencies and providing life-saving medical assistance.”
“Bombardier has a long history of supplying medical evacuation aircraft, and we are honored that our Challenger 650 can contribute to the important work ADAC is doing to provide aid to their customers,” Patrick added.
The Challenger 650 has a range of 7,408 kilometers and features a wider passenger door compared to other aircraft in its segment. Additionally, it will have space to accommodate up to four stretchers.
This order highlights the attributes of the Challenger 650, such as its short runway capabilities and reliability, making it an excellent choice for air ambulance configuration.
“The ADAC Insurance AG ambulance service, in cooperation with Aero-Dienst in Nuremberg, has been setting global standards in patient repatriation for over 50 years. By investing in a new aircraft, we reaffirm our commitment to providing first-class services to our ADAC members and insured individuals,” said Sascha Petzold, member of the Board of Management of ADAC Insurance AG.
“Thanks to the long range of the Challenger 650, we can serve our members worldwide with our own ADAC fleet. Acquiring this new aircraft is another significant step in our strategy to modernize our fleet and continue providing the highest level of service to our ADAC members and insured individuals,” he added.
Dr. Oliver Kosing, one of the Managing Directors of Aero-Dienst, noted: “Aero-Dienst, with its extensive experience in ambulance services for our parent company ADAC SE, is looking forward to putting the Bombardier Challenger 650 into service under our AOC.”
“The Challenger 650 is the best aircraft available for our type of ambulance operation, as its performance perfectly matches our flight profiles,” Kosing added.
