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.

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.

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.

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.

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.