Hop-A-Jet Worldwide Jet Charter has placed a 2016 Bombardier Challenger 650 on its Part 135 certificate, expanding its large-cabin charter line-up as a proposed FAA airworthiness directive targets some of the type's CF34-3B engines.
Hop-A-Jet Worldwide Jet Charter has added a 2016 Bombardier Challenger 650 to its charter fleet. The addition was marked by another milestone on 6 November, when the aircraft completed its first flight under Hop-A-Jet's FAA Part 135 certificate, officially beginning charter operations.
The Challenger 650 offers a range of approximately 4,000 nm and a spacious cabin designed for extended flights. The aircraft includes flexible seating for up to 11 and features high-speed wi-fi, an entertainment system, a full galley and an enclosed lavatory. Its nearly eight-foot-wide cabin provides ample room for passengers travelling on longer business or leisure trips.
“The addition of the Challenger 650 reflects the continued growth and strong position of Hop-A-Jet in the private aviation market,” says Barry Ellis, president and CEO of Hop-A-Jet Worldwide. “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we're proud of the company we've built and the direction we're heading. Our fleet continues to expand, and we remain focused on providing our clients with the aircraft, service and reliability they've come to expect from us.”
The aircraft joins Hop-A-Jet's existing lineup of Bombardier Challenger and Learjet aircraft, adding another option for charter brokers and private clients seeking large-cabin accommodation. Its long-range capabilities make it particularly suited for transcontinental routes and select international destinations.
Founded in 1976 and based at Fort Lauderdale Executive airport, Hop-A-Jet provides on-demand charter, aircraft management and maintenance services. The company continues to develop its fleet and operational capabilities while maintaining the service standards established over five decades in business aviation.
The Challenger 650 carries the same CF34-3B model of engine at the centre of Hop-A-Jet's ongoing litigation. A Challenger 604 operated by the company suffered a dual-engine failure on 9 February 2024 near Naples Municipal airport, killing both pilots. The FAA responded with an NPRM published on 30 April 2026 proposing a new airworthiness directive covering some CF34-1A, -3A, -3A1, -3A2 and -3B engines, with a comment deadline of 15 June 2026; the proposed corrective actions include engine retirement.
