Bombardier Learjet 45
Every year, new business jet models come out, but there are just a few that can truly be considered innovative. The Learjet 45 is one of these; it blends new technology with a tried and true design. Since it's a Learjet, it has great economy and speed, but it's the other features that make it such a popular choice among pilots and passengers alike.
The Learjet 45 seats eight passengers, most times in a double club arrangement. There is ample room to recline and move around, with a cabin that's 19.8 feet long and 5.1 feet wide. Those measurements may sound a bit small, but the 45 was designed in a way that makes the most use of the space within the cabin.
The cabin's other design elements help to make it comfortable and functional- worktables fold down from the side walls, and there is a pressure-release valve on the cabin door for additional safety. The cabin's noise level never rises above 72 decibels, and the dual temperature controls ensure comfort for both flight crew and passengers. The jet has an external luggage compartment with 50 cubic feet of space, and there is an additional fifteen cubic feet of storage space inside the cabin.
The Learjet 45 has a range of 2,099 miles and a cruising speed of 465 miles per hour. It's powered by twin Allied Signal TFE731-20AR turbofans, which each provide 3,500 lbs of thrust. While it was still in its design phase, the Federal Aviation Administration set higher requirements for deicing systems. The jet has the most technologically advanced system of any light or midsized jet, and that combined with the bleed air load balancing software helps the plane climb faster.
The 45's cruise performance is another thing that sets it apart from its competition. It burns 198 lbs. of fuel per hour, and can do a 1,150 mile trip in just over two and a quarter hours. It has great handling at cruising altitude, and it lands and taxis smoothly because of its trailing link landing gear. The jet is FAR part 25 certified, which is the same standard that the Boeing 777 adheres to. The fuselage is made from a strong aluminum alloy, and it comes standard with a Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics suite.
All in all, the Learjet 45 is very reliable, due to its fuel economy and great cruising performance. The performance and technology make it a good option for anyone requiring a cost-efficient, high-performance midsized jet.