Bombardier Learjet 45

Bombardier Learjet 45 (LJ45) is a twin-engine, super-light to mid-size business jet designed and manufactured by Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier Aerospace. It is the first completely new (clean-sheet) design developed by the company since the original Learjet 23 model. The platform is distinguished by its high speed, efficiency, and operational capabilities in short-to-medium range missions, and is primarily used for corporate and VIP transportation.

^{Bombardier Learjet 45 (}Mike Brudett⁾

The Learjet 45 project was announced in September 1992 with the aim of replacing the popular Learjet 35 series.^【1】 Bombardier abandoned the circular fuselage design of previous models (Learjet 31, 35, 55, 60) and developed a new oval fuselage cross-section to increase head and shoulder room, along with a new wing design. The design process extensively utilized computer modeling and customer focus group data.

The aircraft’s first flight took place in 1995. During the initial design phase, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introduced new standards for anti-icing systems, prompting the Learjet 45 to be equipped with an advanced ice protection system for its class. The aircraft received certification from the FAA in 1997.^【2】

Initial deliveries began in January 1998. Throughout production, high-strength aluminum alloys were used in the fuselage structure, and computer-controlled processes were integrated to increase manufacturing efficiency. Production of the standard Learjet 45 model ended in 2007, replaced by improved variants. Bombardier announced in 2021 that it would completely cease production of the Learjet brand, including the Learjet 75 Liberty.^【3】

The Learjet 45 features one of the widest cabins in its class, typically configured with an eight-passenger double-club seating arrangement. The cabin has a flat floor. The aircraft meets 75 safety certification standards comparable to those of the Boeing 777.^【4】

• Cockpit: Equipped with a Honeywell Primus 1000 integrated avionics package featuring four displays: two primary flight displays and two multifunction displays.
• Engines: Powered by two Honeywell (formerly AlliedSignal) TFE731-20AR or TFE731-20BR turbofan engines, each delivering 3,500 pounds of thrust.
• Auxiliary Power Unit (APU): A Honeywell RE-100 APU system is available as standard or optional (varies by source), providing ground power.
• Flight Controls: The aircraft features a T-tail empennage configuration and winglets on the wings.^【5】

• Learjet 45 (Model 45): The standard model produced from 1998 to 2007.
• Learjet 45XR: An upgraded variant introduced in June 2004. Featuring the TFE731-20BR engine configuration, it offers higher takeoff weights, faster climb rates, and improved performance at high temperatures. Production ended in 2012.

^{1999 Bombardier Learjet 45 with Tail Number N711R (}Tomás Del Coro⁾

• Corporate and VIP Transport: Preferred by corporations for short- and medium-range travel due to its speed and efficiency.
• Air Ambulance: Additional pressure relief points added to the cabin door and the spacious interior make it suitable for medical evacuation missions.

The aircraft’s safety record includes a fatal accident that occurred in India on 28 January 2026, which holds technical significance.

• Incident: VT-SSK, a Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Ventures, crashed during approach to Baramati Airport, India.
• Meteorological Conditions: Visibility at the time of the accident was reported to be between 800 and 3,000 meters under foggy conditions. The aircraft failed to establish visual contact on the first approach (missed approach) and crashed on the second attempt.
• Casualties: All five occupants were killed, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar (two pilots, one cabin attendant, one security officer, and one VIP passenger).
• Technical Findings: India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) determined the accident occurred during an approach to an uncontrolled airport under low visibility conditions. No Mayday call was recorded from the flight crew.

The aircraft is operated by numerous private companies and charter operators worldwide. VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd., based in India, is a notable operator. As of 2024 data, 247 Learjet 45 aircraft remain in active service.^【7】

The Learjet 45’s operating costs have been analyzed as fixed and variable expenses:

• Unit Cost: The new production price was approximately USD 10–13 million; on the pre-owned market, prices range from USD 900,000 to USD 3 million depending on production year.
• Fixed Costs: Annual average fixed costs (crew salaries, hangar, insurance, etc.) are estimated at approximately USD 394,466.
• Hourly Cost: The estimated hourly flight cost, including fuel and maintenance, is USD 4,371.^【8】