Private Jet Review
Learjet 35
The Learjet 35 is known, above all, for its range. It can fly
2,056
miles nonstop. That means direct flights from Seattle to Detroit – or pretty much anywhere. The Learjet 35 offers more than range: it has good handling characteristics, a low fuel burn, and fast cruise speeds as well.
A maximum of eight passengers can travel in the Learjet 35’s cabin. It is 12.9 feet long, 4.9 feet wide, and 4.3 feet high. There are 40 cubic feet of baggage space, enough to hold about eight standard-sized suitcases.
The real strength of the Learjet 35 is its range, takeoff, and cruise capabilities. Two Honeywell TFE731-2-2B engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust, allowing the Lear 35 to take off in 4,972 feet. The maximum take off weight is pretty high as well at 18,300 pounds.
Components of these engines have been used on much higher-performing jets. Their pressure compressors were taken from the Garret 660-series engine, which is used on 747s. Their turbine components come from DC-10s, and the high-pressure impellers are a modified version of the one used in the TPE 331 and T76 engines.
The Learjet 35 is has a relatively long range for a private jet, and can cruise at speeds as high as 451 ktas, or 424 ktas with four passengers. Fuel consumption is excellent: the 31A burns only 197 gallons of fuel per hour.
A few other details make the Learjet 35 a popular private jet. First of all, it meets FAR part 36 noise standards, making it a kind of “good neighbor” at airports. Furthermore, the avionics system is completely redesigned from previous models, giving pilots an uncluttered control panel that is easy to work with. Pilots have also commented on its agility and excellent performance capabilities.
The Learjet 35 has received some interesting honors since the first serial number rolled off the line. It was selected for use as a military jet, where it now operates with the name C-21. It was the first private jet to land at Denver International Airport when their new runway opened, and it seems to be a favorite among celebrities.
