Bombardier Learjet 45XR Specs and Description

New models of private jets come out every year, but it’s only ever so often that a jet is released that is truly innovative. The medium-range Learjet 45, replacing the 35, is one of the rare jets to seamlessly integrate new technology with a tested and successful older design. Its speed and economy are to be expected – being a Learjet – but its remaining features combine to create a high-quality private jet and the 45XR even more so.

The Learjet 45XR’s cabin holds eight seats (usually in a double club layout) with plenty of room to swivel, recline, and track. The cabin’s width and length are 5.1 feet and 19.8 feet, respectively. Don’t be misled by these measurements; the interior of the Learjet 45 was designed to offer the most usable passenger space possible so that the passengers do not feel claustrophobic. When combined, small increases in legroom, seat width and galley storage make a difference.

Other fine points of the cabin’s design make it functional and comfortable, from work tables that fold down from the walls to an extra pressure relief port on the door for added passenger safety. The noise level in the cabin never exceeds 72 dB, and a two-zone temperature control system ensures that both the cabin and the cockpit are kept comfortable. An external compartment provides 50 cubic feet of heated baggage space and there is an additional 15 cubin feet in the interior.

The Learjet 45XR can fly 2,301 miles (1,999 nautical miles) nonstop and can cruise at 437 knots. Two AlliedSignal TFE731-20BR turbofan engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust each on takeoff.

While the original Learjet 45 was still in the design phase, the FAA stiffened the standards for anti-ice systems. It comes as no surprise that the resulting private jet had the most advanced anti-ice system of any light- or mid-sized jet. The engine anti-icing system was completely redesigned for better ice removal. Bleed air load balancing software increases the engines’ total thrust, and improves the rate of climb while the ice removal system is in use. The software distributes the bleed air system between the two engines so that they perform uniformly. And the 45XR enjoys the same system.

The Learjet 45XR is certified to FAR part 25 amendment 75 safety standards, almost identical to the safety standards required for Boeing 777s. Its fuselage is made principally from high-strength aluminum alloys. Computer-controlled manufacturing process increases precision and speed of production.

The Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics system comes standard; it includes four large-format EFIS (ERO Frequency Information Systems) and a 3-D approach navigation system through a Universal UNS-1C FMS. For the first time in a Learjet, there are no restrictions on the lateral and vertical approach guidance simulations.

The Learjet 45XR is an extremely reliable jet with great cruise performance and fuel economy. Its innovative systems and efficient performance, borrowed from familial models, make it a viable option for anyone in search of a high-performing, cost-effective mid-sized private jet.