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Bombardier Learjet 40XR

2005 – 2012

Key Facts

  • The Bombardier Learjet 40XR is a light jet manufactured by Bombardier between 2005 and 2012.
  • The Bombardier Learjet 40XR is powered by two Honeywell TFE731-20BR engines, resulting in an hourly fuel burn of 212 Gallons per Hour.
  • Capable of cruising at up to 460 knots, the Bombardier Learjet 40XR can fly non-stop for up to 1780 nautical miles.
  • The aircraft can carry up to 6 passengers.
  • The Bombardier Learjet 40XR has an estimated hourly charter price of $3250, with a new list price of $11 million at the time of manufacture.

Overview and History of the Bombardier Learjet 40XR

The Learjet 40XR is an upgraded version of the Learjet 40. Manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace, the 40XR features six passengers in a club configuration, improvements in hot-and-high performance, faster climb rates, and faster long range cruise speeds.

Derived from the Lear 45, the Learjet 40 and 40XR are 24.5 inches shorter and have a maximum take-off weight that is 150 lbs. lighter.

These two characteristics increase performance and lower operational costs. The Lear 40 aircraft received FAA certification in July 2003, as an amendment to the Type Certification of the Lear 45, and ended production in 2009. The Learjet 40XR went into operation in 2005 and ended production in 2012.

The new 40XR also boasts higher takeoff weights, and faster time-to-climb speeds, along with a marginal price increase over the standard 40 model. Additionally, there were a total of 92 aircraft produced and currently in operation today.

Performance of the Lear 40XR

The Learjet 40XR aircraft is equipped with two robust Honeywell TFE731-20-BR turbofan engines, each offering a thrust output of 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg), underlining the aircraft’s robust power capabilities.

The Learjet 40XR can reach a high-speed cruise of 460 knots (about 852 km/h), ensuring swift travel.

For longer journeys, a long-range cruise speed of 432 knots (around 800 km/h) can be sustained, allowing for a fine balance between fuel efficiency and speed.

The 40XR has an impressive maximum altitude of 51,000 feet (approximately 15,545 meters), placing it well above most commercial air traffic and turbulent weather, ensuring a smoother and quieter flight experience.

The aircraft boasts an extensive range of 1,780 nautical miles (approximately 3,297 km), allowing for nonstop flights across continents.

In terms of ground operations, the Learjet 40XR offers a relatively short take-off distance of just 4,250 feet (about 1,295 meters), providing accessibility to a wide array of airports, including those with shorter runways. The landing distance is equally admirable, only requiring 2,430 feet (approximately 741 meters) to safely touch down.

Please note that these performance figures represent the best-case scenarios. Real-world range and ground performance can be affected by numerous factors including weather conditions, load, and specific operational practices. The Learjet 40XR, however, remains a reliable choice, combining speed, range, and operational versatility.

Bombardier Learjet 40XR Interior

The cabin dimensions set the stage for comfort, measuring 17.7 feet (5.4 m) in length, 5.1 feet (1.6 m) in width, and 4.9 feet (1.5 m) in height. In terms of length, this cabin is around two feet shorter than that of the 45 it is based.

These generous sizes add up to a total cabin volume of 363 cubic feet (10.3 cubic meters), making the Learjet 40XR’s cabin the largest in its class and about 20% larger than that of its competitors.

The Learjet 40XR comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, with a typical configuration for six arranged with having passengers in a club plus two, including a belted lavatory seat.

The typical layout features a forward club with four seats, complemented by two aft forward-facing seats, all furnished with executive fold-out tables. This arrangement assures ample room for movement and relaxation, thanks to the flat floor design.

At the front passengers will find a forward coat closet and refreshment center.

A forward galley and a standard lavatory, situated aft of the main cabin, provide additional comfort and convenience to passengers. The enclosed lavatory is equipped with a mirror, sink, and faucet, plus in-cabin storage space.

Furthermore, the Learjet 40XR boasts a maximum cabin altitude of 7,800 feet (2,377 m), and maintains a comfortable sea-level cabin altitude up to 25,700 feet (7,833 m), ensuring passenger comfort during flight.

The aircraft also offers generous provisions for luggage, with baggage compartments that can accommodate up to 65 cubic feet (1.8 cubic meters) of baggage. 50 cu.ft is in the external baggage compartment.

Cockpit of the 40XR Business Jet

The cockpit of the Bombardier Learjet 40XR is equipped with the Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics system.

This high-performing suite features four cathode-ray tube screens strategically positioned on the control panel for optimum visibility and accessibility.

The meticulous arrangement of avionics, crafted with a strong focus on logic and usability, significantly eases the pilot’s workload and enhances flight safety.

In addition to the state-of-the-art avionics, the Learjet 40XR employs other features to ensure a smooth and safe flight experience. These include carbon brakes and wing spoilers for gentle landings and ‘delta fins’ on the vertical stabilizer for increased stability.

These fins notably improve control during stalls. Not to mention, the Learjet 40XR fulfills the FAA’s stringent part 25 safety requirements and adheres to the FAR-36 noise levels, registering at 74.4 EPNdB on takeoff.

Hourly Charter Cost

The Bombardier Learjet 40XR carries an estimated hourly charter cost of around $3,400 in North America.

However, it’s important to understand that this is a base figure, and actual charter costs can vary widely based on numerous factors. The length of the charter, the time of year, and the exact departure and arrival locations can all significantly influence the final price.

Additional elements such as passenger count, luggage weight, and any specific additional services requested can further adjust the total cost. Despite these variables, the Learjet 40XR presents a compelling value proposition, balancing luxury, performance, and cost efficiency in a way few competitors can match.

Purchase Cost

The Bombardier Learjet 40XR, when purchased new, would set you back approximately $11 million.

On the pre-owned market today a typical Learjet 40XR costs on average $2 million.

If you plan to fly for around 200 hours per year, it’s essential to consider the associated operating costs, which include fuel, maintenance, insurance, and hangarage.

The estimated annual ownership cost of operating a Learjet 40XR under these conditions rounds up to approximately $580,000. 

 

 

Performance

Comfort

Weights

Range: 1,780 nm Number of Passengers: 8 Baggage Capacity: 65 Cubic Feet
Cruise Speed: 460 knots Cabin Pressure: 9.4 PSI Max Take-Off Weight: 21,000 lbs
Ceiling: 51,000 feet Cabin Altitude: 7,800 feet Max Landing Weight: 19,200 lbs
Take-Off Distance: 4,250 feet Production Start: 2005
Landing Distance: 2,430 feet Production End: 2012

 

Dimensions

Power

Exterior Length: 55.5 feet Engine Manufacturer: Honeywell
Exterior Height: 14.1 feet Engine Model: TFE731-20BR
Wingspan: 47.8 feet Fuel Burn: 212 Gallons per Hour
Interior Length: 17.7 feet
Interior Width: 5.1 feet
Interior Height: 4.9 feet
Interior/Exterior Ratio: 32%