Learjet Longhorn (Model 28/29/55)
Learjet · United States · first flew 1977 · light aircraft
The Learjet Longhorn designation covers the Models 28, 29, and 55, united by their distinctive large winglets, which earned the 'Longhorn' name and delivered a significant improvement in range and efficiency.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 14.63 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | T-tail |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- winglets with pronounced anhedral 'drooped' tips — the defining Longhorn feature
- T-tail differentiates the Model 55 from earlier conventional-tail Learjets
- wider cabin cross-section on the Model 55 compared to early Learjets
The large winglets — noticeably taller and more sharply canted than those of later Learjet 30-series aircraft — are the key recognition feature. The Model 55's T-tail further distinguishes it from the 28/29. Both are wider than the original narrow Learjets.
Specifications
- The Learjet Longhorn (Model 28/29/55) has a length of 14.63 m (48 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.35 m (44 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 882 km/h (548 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 pilots + up to 8 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
By the mid-1970s the original Learjet wing's efficiency was limiting range. Learjet developed large Whitcomb-style winglets, first flown on the Model 28 in 1977. The winglets allowed transatlantic range on the Model 55 mid-size jet, which entered service in 1981 with a stand-up cabin and T-tail.
Variants
The Model 28 and 29 are narrow-body Longhorns; the Model 55 is a wider, mid-size development with a stand-up cabin. The Model 55C added winglets to an already winglet-designed airframe.
Where you'll see it
Operated globally by corporate and charter customers as a medium-range business jet; the Model 55 found particular favour for transatlantic missions.
Related aircraft
- Learjet 28
- Learjet 55
- Learjet 31
- Learjet 25
- Alexander Schleicher ASW 20
- AmeriPlanes Mitchell Wing A-10
- Cessna 152
- Cessna Citation I SP
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