Super Light business jet: Bombardier Learjet 45

The Bombardier Aerospace Learjet 45, a nine-seat super-light business jet was announced in 1992. At present Over 235 aircrafts are in service. As well as the super-light Learjet 45, the rear engine Learjet business jet family includes the light Learjet 31A, and the midsize Learjet 60. In July 2002, two new additions to the family were unveiled: Learjet 40 light business jet and Learjet 45 XR. The four-passenger Learjet 40, with a maximum range of 3,339km, took its first flight in August 2002 and entered service in January 2004.

The Learjet 45 XR will enter service in 2004. Compared to the Learjet 45, the Learjet 45 XR can carry eight passengers to a range of up to 3,704km. It can climb faster and has an increased maximum speed. It has improved performance when operating in very hot or very cold conditions. The redesigned interior provides 15cm more legroom in the cabin, 5cm more seat width and more galley storage space.

Both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Joint Aviation Authorities (EJAA) certify the Learjet 45, and it is approved by the regulatory agencies in more than 30 countries. Weighing only 35,000lb (15,874kg), the Learjet 45 is equipped with advanced flight software and architecture, such as an Engine Instrument and Crew Advisory System (EICAS) and on board maintenance diagnostics, to minimise pilot and maintenance workloads

The aircraft is equipped with a Honeywell Primus 1000 four, 8in by 7in tube electronic flight and information system with a Primus 1000 digital autopilot and flight director, an engine instrument and crew advisory system and a Honeywell Primus 660 weather radar. The navigation and communications system is the Primus II. The aircraft can be fitted with a TCAS II Honeywell traffic alert and collision avoidance system.

Learjet 45 has two Honeywell TFE731-20 turbofan engines each providing 15.57kN (3,500lb) thrust at take-off. The engines are fitted with Dee Howard thrust reverters and Digital Electronic Engine Control (DEEC). The aircraft has a Honeywell RE 100 auxiliary power unit. Learjet 45 has the ability to climb to the initial cruise altitude in 23mins 6s. The long-range cruise speed is 778km/hr and the maximum operating altitude is 51,000ft or 15,545m.