Private Jet Review
Learjet 45
New models of private jets come out every year, but it’s only once in a while that a jet is released that is truly innovative. The Learjet 45 is one of the rare jets that seamlessly integrates new technology with a tested and successful older design. Its speed and economy are to be expected – it is a Learjet, after all – but the rest of its small features add up to a high-quality private jet.
The Learjet 45’s cabin holds eight seats, usually in a double club layout, with plenty of room to swivel, recline, and track. The cabin’s length and width is 59 inches and 61 inches, respectively. Don’t be mislead by the measurements; the interior of the Learjet 45 was designed to offer the most usable passenger space possible so the passengers don’t feel claustrophobic.
Other fine points of the cabin’s design make it useful and comfortable, from work tables that fold down from the walls to an extra pressure relief port on the door for added passenger safety. The noise level in the cabin never exceeds 72 dB and a two-zone temperature control system ensures that both the cabin and the cockpit are kept comfortable. An external compartment provides 80 cubic feet of baggage space.
The Learjet 45 can fly 2,471 miles (2,147 nautical miles) nonstop and can cruise at 517 mph. Two AlliedSignal TFE731-20AR turbofan engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust each on takeoff.
The standards for anti-ice systems were stiffened by the FAA while the Learjet 45 was still in the design phase. It comes as no surprise that the resulting private jet had the most advanced anti-ice system of any light- or mid-sized jet. The engine anti-icing system was completely redesigned for better ice removal. Bleed air load balancing software increases the engines’ total thrust, and improves the rate of climb while the ice removal system is in use. The software distributes the bleed air system between the two engines so that they perform uniformly.
Speaking of engines, the cruise performance of the Learjet 45 sets it apart from other light- and mid-sized jets. It burns 198 pounds of fuel per hour and can complete a trip of 1,150 miles (1,000 nautical miles) in about two hours and twenty minutes. It handles exceptionally well, especially at cruise altitude, and taxis and lands smoothly due to its trailing link landing gear.
The Learjet 45 is certified to FAR part 25 amendment 75 safety standards, almost identical to the safety standards required for Boeing 777s. Its fuselage is made principally from high-strength aluminum alloys. The computer controlled manufacturing process increases precision and speed of production.
The Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics system comes standard and includes four large-format EFIS (ERO Frequency Information Systems) and a 3-D approach navigation system through a Universal UNS-1C FMS. For the first time in a Learjet, there are no restrictions on the lateral and vertical approach guidance simulations.
The Learjet 45 is an extremely reliable jet with great cruise performance and fuel economy. Its innovative systems and efficient performance make it a viable option for anyone in search of a high-performing, cost-effective mid-sized private jet.
