Program Updates

Previous Back to Newsfeed

Learjet 85 Update: Taking on Tomorrow Today

May 1, 2010

With its clean sheet design, composite structure and the incorporation of the latest technologies, the Learjet 85 is on its way to defining the future. Progress on this exceptional aircraft continues on track as the program moves into another exciting year of achieving milestones.

Entering A New Design Phase

With the completion of the Joint Definition Phase where the overall configuration of the aircraft has been defined, the Learjet 85 program has now entered the Detailed Definition Phase. In addition to systems design, installation and integration being on target, we have made great progress with the Technology Readiness Phases enabling us to validate our material and manufacturing process. We have added UK based Morson International to our design support roster, bringing our number of design centers to three. Tool fabrication is progressing with over 1500 tools to be built for composite manufacturing by year-end.

Technology Readiness Progress

Technology Readiness is a parallel learning and testing activity to identify, test and implement new proven technologies to the platform. To date, we have completed 3 of the 6 Technology Readiness Phases.

Second World Mock-up Tour in Progress

On the wings of a successful year of appearances around the world, the second Learjet 85 Mock-Up Tour is now underway, providing an exclusive opportunity for people to experience the elegance and innovation of this born leader in person. Upcoming events are scheduled at EBACE in Geneva, the Cannes Film Festival and at NBAA 2010 in Atlanta. Please consult the Learjet 85 website on a regular basis for mockup tour dates and itinerary.

Building with Your Input

We are building the Learjet 85 for you and with you. To date, more than 85 % of customer design inputs have been addressed that range from flight deck improvements to cabin interior features, to improved maintainability. Last year’s highlights include our successful third Focus Group meeting at NBAA where the mockup was presented with latest design changes and Focus Group Webcast where we were able to gain live feedback from our customers. The focus this year is on aircraft manual definition and cabin management system interface and design.

The Best is yet to Come

Uniquely positioned to be the segment leader for the upper mid-size category, the Learjet 85 will be the largest, fastest and longest range Learjet ever. 2010 will be another exciting year as we prepare to manufacture our flight test aircraft. We’ll keep you posted on our progress!