Learjet 55

Learjet · United States · first flew 1979 · light aircraft

The Learjet 55 was a mid-size business jet developed from the smaller Learjet 35/36 series, offering a larger stand-up cabin while retaining the classic Learjet performance and handling. The manufacturer is listed as Canada in the source but Learjet was a US company (Wichita, Kansas), though later acquired by Bombardier of Canada.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Low-mounted, swept
E — Engines	2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	Twin rear-fuselage-mounted turbofans
T — Tail	T-tail

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Spot it by:

Mid-size business jet with stand-up cabin
Twin rear-fuselage-mounted turbofans
T-tail and delta-style wing root extensions (winglets)

Distinguished from smaller Learjets by its larger fuselage cross-section allowing stand-up headroom, combined with the classic Learjet T-tail and swept low wing with tip tanks.

Specifications

The Learjet 55 has a length of 16.8 m (55 ft).
It has a wingspan of 13.35 m (44 ft).
Its maximum speed is 871 km/h (541 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

The Learjet 55 first flew in 1979 and entered service in 1981. It was the first Learjet with a stand-up cabin, bridging the gap between the light Learjet 20/30 series and larger competitors. Bombardier acquired Learjet in 1990 and continued production until 1991 with around 147 aircraft built.

Variants

Variants included the 55B with upgraded engines and winglets, and the 55C with further improvements; the 55C/ER offered extended range.

Where you'll see it

The Learjet 55 series served corporate and charter operators worldwide and remains in service with business aviation operators globally.

Related aircraft

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