Program Updates
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Meeting our Commitments
July 9, 2009
Progress on the Learjet 85 continues at full throttle with Bombardier Learjet keeping the momentum going strong, leveraging expertise from around the world. From nose to tail, we are moving forward with advances in cockpit configuration, aircraft systems integration, wind tunnel testing, and the development of a rear fuselage structure that is currently being tested with respect to our design, process and material.
Passing the test with flying colors
The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) has completed high-speed wind tunnel testing in Wichita, validating the aircraft’s aerodynamic design. The tests have verified that the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307B engines will enable the aircraft to reach its targeted maximum cruise speed of M0.82*, 1% faster than today's Learjet top speed. The wind tunnel is operated by Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research and has a 7×10x12 foot test section capable of reaching speeds of up to 240 mph. NIAR is a prestigious state-of-the-art aerospace research and development laboratory with global reach and expertise in research, design, testing and certification.
Composite structure built
The Bombardier Learjet team has also created a large-scale composite fuselage section of the aircraft. This structure is now being tested and inspected to assess a proof of concept of the design. This information will then be fed back as required into the design process enabling us to make changes to the design before we make production tooling. Here again, NIAR, the lead institution in the FAA’s Center of Excellence for Composites and Advanced Materials, will play a critical role and provide material and structural testing as well as supporting aircraft certification under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 25.
With product design and manufacturing development taking place at three sites including Montreal, Wichita and Queretaro and our outside collaborators fully committed to the program, we are right on track to meet our first customer deliveries in 2013.
*at 43,000 ft, 31,200 lb cruise weight, standard ISA conditions.
Disclaimer
The aircraft is currently under development and the design and the design tolerances remain to be finalized and certified. The aircraft is subject to change during the course of the design, manufacture and certification process. The statements about performance, design, design tolerances and the images shown in this document are solely based on projections and forecasts and are subject to change without notice. All competitive data is based upon public information derived from third party sources. This document and the information contained herein does not constitute an offer, commitment, representation or warranty of any kind with respect to the aircraft. The actual configuration and performance of the aircraft shall be subject of a purchase agreement between the buyer and Learjet.