Program Updates
Learjet 85 Update: Preparing for Production
September 24, 2010
With the Mexico factory build progressing to plan, a significant portion of composite tooling underway, and the Wichita final assembly facility readiness plan in place, 2010 is proving to be another exciting year of progress for the Learjet 85 aircraft program. The first clean sheet Learjet design in over a decade, and the first composite FAR Part 25 business jet ever, the Learjet 85 combines both new and proven technologies to deliver the legendary performance customers expect from a Learjet.
Entering the next phase in leadership
The Learjet 85 aircraft Program has entered the Detail Design Phase with over 6000 drawings to release and a robust configuration that meets design targets. This includes a high-speed cruise of M0.82, a long-range cruise of M0.78 and a 4-passenger range of 3,000NM (5,556 km)*. Regarding Composite Technology Readiness, we have entered Phase 4 where we are focusing on Manufacturing Repeatability and Optimization. Technology Readiness is a parallel learning and testing activity to validate the implementation of new technologies on the platform. Phase 4 covers complex shape manufacturability, environment resistance and wing demonstrator.
Ensuring efficiency with Learjet 85 mock-ups
Building the aircraft of the future means thinking ahead. To that point, we have built an aft fuselage mock-up as well as an underbelly fairing mock-up, allowing us to conduct an ergonomic assessment of systems installation and servicing now, so that maintenance and upkeep on the Learjet 85 aircraft is fast and easy in the future.
Developing tools for success
The tools development process is progressing well as we prepare building over 1500 tools for manufacturing the Learjet 85 aircraft. This includes the development process of fuselage tools, wing tools, and h-stab tools. Some 45,000 pounds (20,412-kg) of production tooling was transferred to the Learjet 85 aircraft manufacturing facility in Querétaro, Mexico. Tooling installation began at the end of July and now we are preparing for the first production part for the Learjet 85 business jet.
Ready, set, go!
With construction of the Learjet 85 manufacturing center in Querétaro now complete, and manufacturing equipment as well as composite tooling being installed at the site, we are readying for production of the new Learjet 85 aircraft. Once again at the forefront of the industry, Learjet is the first aircraft manufacturer to achieve Mexico manufacturing permission from the FAA for Category 1 and 2 aircraft parts, such as the aircraft’s wing and fuselage structures. Meanwhile in Wichita, a formal agreement has been signed by the state of Kansas that will secure production of the Learjet 85 aircraft at Bombardier Learjet in Wichita. The site will be responsible for final assembly, paint, production flight test and delivery.
Integrating a full-flight simulator from CAE
To support aircraft testing and certification in advance of the Learjet 85 business jet’s planned entry-into-service in 2013, Bombardier is integrating a full-flight simulator (FFS) from CAE into the Learjet 85 program. The FFS will be housed at Bombardier’s aircraft training centre in Montreal with training scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2013.
Incorporating customer-driven changes
Developed with your feedback and evolving market needs, The Learjet 85 will feature a range of customer-driven value added equipment. For example, the aircraft will come equipped with a single high frequency radio with selective-calling radio system (SELCAL), Single Channel Iridium Phone (SATCOM), Dial in Preset Fuel Quantity, Remote Oil Level Sensing (ROLS) for APU (Auxiliary Power Unit), High Resolution Maps and a Document Reader.
It’s all coming together beautifully
Faster, stronger, smarter, the Learjet 85 aircraft will redefine the midsize category in performance, comfort and technology. With the program progressing on schedule, everything is coming together beautifully as we begin to manufacture our first Learjet 85 aircraft.
* Under certain operating 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.