Learjet 60XR | Article

The Learjet 60XR, Bombardier’s final installment in the legendary Learjet family, carries forward a legacy that began with Bill Lear’s original Lear 23 in 1963. As the last generation of the iconic turbofan-powered line, the 60XR blends the classic Learjet speed with upgraded avionics and a redesigned, more spacious interior. First flown in 2006, it remains a top competitor in the midsize business jet category.

Power and Performance

Derived from the large-cabin Learjet 55 series, the 60XR introduced notable improvements in both size and power. It was the first Learjet to be powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A turbofan engines, each delivering 4,600 pounds of thrust. These engines offer an inspection interval of 6,000 hours, reducing maintenance downtime and improving lifecycle cost efficiency.

Thanks to its powerplant, the Learjet 60XR achieves a climb rate of over 6,000 feet per minute—one of the best in its class. In addition, it can cruise at Mach 0.81 and is certified to fly at altitudes up to 51,000 feet. Despite these aggressive performance specs, the aircraft maintains impressive fuel efficiency, outperforming many of its competitors on overall operating cost.

Advanced Avionics: Pro Line 21

One of the most significant upgrades in the 60XR is the transition to the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, replacing the earlier Pro Line 4. This advanced system offers:

– A 75% larger display area with four 8×10-inch screens
– Lower overall weight
– Higher reliability and more processing capabilities
– Integrated electronic charting in the Flight Management System

With Pro Line 21, the Learjet 60XR not only improves pilot situational awareness but also reduces workload, making operations more intuitive and efficient.

Aerodynamic and Structural Enhancements

Bombardier prioritized performance in the 60XR’s design. For example, the aircraft retains the winglets found on earlier Longhorn-series Learjets, which reduce drag and improve fuel economy. Moreover, the fuselage has been stretched by 43 inches, resulting in an 11% increase in cabin volume over the Learjet 55.

Additional aerodynamic and system upgrades include:

– A digital steer-by-wire nosewheel system
– Electrically heated windshield
– Improved pressurization and handling characteristics

These refinements contribute to the aircraft’s reputation for strong performance and reliability.

Redesigned Cabin Comfort

The most notable improvement in the Learjet 60XR lies in the cabin. Measuring 5.7 feet high, 5.9 feet wide, and 17.7 feet long, the interior accommodates up to eight passengers comfortably. While it may not match the volume of some competitors, it still offers a notable increase in space over the earlier 55 series.

Cabin upgrades include:

– A larger galley for improved in-flight service
– An expanded aft baggage compartment (48 cubic feet)
– A cabin management system with digital control modules and power ports
– Up to five flexible floorplans to meet various passenger needs

These improvements make the 60XR more passenger-friendly, especially on longer missions.

Market Presence and Value

The Learjet 60XR has upheld the brand’s reputation for high-speed, high-altitude business travel. More than 300 units have been delivered since the early 1990s. Despite no longer being in production, it remains a competitive option in the pre-owned market, often priced around $13 million, depending on age, total time, and upgrade packages.

A Legacy of Speed and Precision

In conclusion, the Learjet 60XR continues to represent the best of the Learjet lineage. With its outstanding climb performance, upgraded cockpit, and enhanced cabin, it appeals to pilots and passengers alike. For those seeking a high-performing midsize jet that still holds its own in today’s market, the 60XR remains a smart and proven choice.