The Learjet 40 is a light business jet developed by Bombardier Aerospace as a shorter, lighter, and more cost-effective version of the Learjet 45. Introduced in the early 2000s, the Learjet 40 was designed for executive travel, offering impressive speed and climb performance with a luxurious cabin for up to 7 passengers. It’s ideal for short to medium-range missions and is well-regarded for its reliability and sleek Learjet style.

✈️ Overview:

• Role: Light business jet
• Manufacturer: Bombardier Aerospace
• First flight: August 31, 2002
• Introduced: 2003
• Production ended: 2013 (replaced by Learjet 70)
• Total built: ~100+ (including 40XR variant)

🛠️ Key Specs (Learjet 40):

• Engines: 2 × Honeywell TFE731-20AR turbofans
• Max cruise speed: Mach 0.81 (~521 mph / 839 km/h)
• Range: ~1,700 nautical miles (3,150 km)
• Service ceiling: 51,000 ft (15,545 m)
• Takeoff distance: ~4,330 ft (1,320 m)
• Landing distance: ~2,660 ft (811 m)
• Crew: 2 (pilot + co-pilot)
• Passengers: Typically 6–7
• Cabin dimensions: Length: 17.7 ft (5.39 m) Width: 5.1 ft (1.56 m) Height: 4.9 ft (1.50 m)
  • Length: 17.7 ft (5.39 m)
  • Width: 5.1 ft (1.56 m)
  • Height: 4.9 ft (1.50 m)

🔍 Design Highlights:

• Based on the Learjet 45, but with a shortened fuselage (by ~24 inches)
• Shares the same wing and avionics suite as the Lear 45
• Features a flat-floor cabin, leather club seating, fold-out tables, and an enclosed lavatory
• Glass cockpit with Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics
• Large external baggage compartment (65 cu ft)

✨ Variant: Learjet 40XR

Introduced in 2004, the 40XR improved on the original with:

• More powerful engines (TFE731-20BR)
• Better hot and high performance
• Increased takeoff weight and payload
• Slightly longer range (~1,780 nautical miles)
• Improved climb and cruise performance

✅ Strengths:

• Fast and efficient—one of the quickest jets in the light class
• High cruising altitude (up to 51,000 ft)
• Smooth ride and responsive handling
• Luxurious cabin despite compact size
• Excellent value on the pre-owned market

❌ Weaknesses:

• Cabin headroom is limited—no true stand-up room
• Less range than some competitors (like the Phenom 300 or Citation CJ4)
• Small galley—limited for longer flights
• Original (non-XR) model had performance constraints in hot/high conditions

🪦 Legacy & Use Today:

• The Learjet 40 and 40XR were popular among corporate fleets, charter services, and air ambulance operators
• Replaced in Bombardier’s lineup by the Learjet 70 in 2013
• Still actively flying, valued for their performance, speed, and brand prestige

🛩️ Fun Fact:

Although the Learjet 40 was introduced after the 45, it actually carried serial numbers that continued from earlier Learjet models—a nod to Bombardier’s emphasis on continuity and brand legacy.