The Learjet 55 ‘Longhorn’ is a remarkable business jet that has delighted passengers and crew since it entered private aviation in 1981. First announced at the Paris Airshow in 1977, the 55 was Learjet’s first mid-size aircraft; as Aviator Insider writes, the jet “is almost 45 years old, but it is still a workhorse.” The Learjet 55 implemented all of the great components that were loved in previous Learjet models, like great speed and climb capability, while adding more competitive features including a larger fuselage and more cabin amenities and accommodations.
Learjet 55 Features
Interior
Designed to maximize passenger comfort and productivity, the Learjet 55’s cabin measures 5.7 feet in height, 5.9 feet in width, and 13.7 feet in length for a total volume of 407 cubic feet—up to 50 percent more cabin space and 18 inches more headroom than found with previous models. The most popular cabin arrangement seats seven passengers includes a set of club-four seats with one additional aft seat and a side-facing bench opposite the small galley.
Passengers can access their luggage in the jet’s 40 cubic feet of temperature-controlled, pressurized internal baggage space, with an additional 20 cubic feet of external storage space. Amenities offered to passengers include an air show display, wireless headsets, and a half-width lavatory.
Performance
The fuel capacity of the Lear 55 was expanded to 6705 lbs. and the jet burns about 188 gallons of fuel per hour, making it an extremely fuel-efficient aircraft. The business jet also featured an increased wingspan, a raised t-tail to increase directional stability, and of course, the drag-reducing, high-strength-aluminum winglets that resulted in its “longhorn” nickname.
