Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Bombardier manufactures a variety of business aircraft models, provides engineering, and aircraft maintenance services.

Charles Alcock

International private flight provider Vista is refreshing its fleet with an order for up to 160 Bombardier Challenger 3500s. The Dubai-based group and the Canadian airframer announced the agreement—covering 40 firm orders and 120 options—today, saying that deliveries will start immediately and run over the next 10 years.
According to Vista, the new super-midsize jets will give it flexibility to support the travel needs of clients in its membership program worldwide. The company said that in 2025, it achieved another year of double-digit growth in demand for flights under the program offering, with an average 16% year-over-year increase in flight hours.
The Middle East recorded the highest regional increase in “live hours” at 32%. This compared with 30% in Africa, 22% <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2025-10-07/vista-chases-growth-japans-private-flight-market">in Asia</a>, 15% in Europe, and 11% in the U.S. The membership base increased by 12%.
The Challenger 3500s will be delivered in Vista’s branded livery of silver with a red stripe and will be deployed for both its VistaJet Program Membership offering and XO charter service. The cabin features a pocket door for privacy, voice-controlled cabin systems, new interiors with Bombardier’s Nuage zero-gravity seats, and a jump seat for a flight attendant.
“This agreement is about leadership, preparedness, and client experience,” said Vista founder and chairman Thomas Flohr. “We are continuing to build the fleet our members will rely on over the next decade, not reacting to short-term cycles, but investing with clarity, scale, and discipline.”
Vista’s core fleet of over 200 aircraft is based on Bombardier models, including a mix of the Global 5000, 6000, and 7500 jets, plus multiple Challenger types. Through its acquisitions of operators including XOJet and Jet Edge, and some partnerships, it also offers various Gulfstream, Embraer, Cessna, and Dassault aircraft.
Between 2012 and 2022, VistaJet took delivery of a $78 billion order for Global aircraft, including 18 of the Global 7500 model. It lays claim to being the largest operator of that type in the world.&nbsp;
“This significant order is a testament to how well this aircraft serves our customers, delivering the perfect balance of cutting-edge technology, exceptional comfort, and proven value,” said Bombardier president and CEO Éric Martel. “Vista has been a valued Bombardier customer since they began operating. We are proud that our relationship will further deepen through this significant order and are excited for Vista’s teams and clients to benefit from everything the Challenger 3500 aircraft has to offer.”

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

Vista Refreshes Fleet Ordering Up to 160 Bombardier Challenger 3500s

New agreement covers 40 firm orders and options for 120 more of the super-midsize jets

Vista says rising demand for its membership offering has prompted a deal with Bombardier that will see deliveries of new Challenger 3500s between now and 2036.

Vista Refreshes Fleet, Orders Up to 160 Challenger 3500s

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