N285DH

The airframe bearing tail number N285DH is a 1982-built Learjet 55 with serial number 55-026, manufactured by GATES LEARJET CORP. It is recorded as owned by ROYAL AIR FREIGHT INC, a corporation based in Waterford, MI, US, and is registered in the US. Historically the airframe is notable for its continuous corporate ownership rather than individual or fractional possession, and current valuation records list the airframe at $666,000, reflecting its aged but serviceable condition for light jet operations.

This specific Learjet 55 airframe is certified for up to 13 seats, with typical executive cabin layouts configured for seven to eight passengers in a club arrangement, combined with a forward galley and an aft lavatory. Operated out of Waterford, MI by ROYAL AIR FREIGHT INC, the aircraft’s mission profile aligns with medium-range corporate or charter flights that exploit the model’s high cruise speed (419 kts) and transcontinental range of 2,296 nm. Maintenance considerations for this airframe reflect the twin Garrett TFE731-3A series engines, each rated at 3,700 lbf, and the logistic footprint of an early-1980s Learjet requiring component life-cycle management and airframe corrosion monitoring. Avionics fit is not published in the provided data.

The Learjet 55 occupies a light to midsize business jet niche characterized by relatively high cruise speeds and service ceilings, exemplified here by a 51,000 ft ceiling and 419 kts cruise. Competing aircraft in its era offered similar speed-range trade-offs; current market interest typically focuses on operators seeking performance at lower acquisition cost, reflected in the airframe value of $666,000. Resale and maintenance considerations for this 1982-built airframe center on engine TFE731 support, parts availability, and the cost of avionics modernization relative to prospective charter or corporate utility.