Company Looks To Start Deliveries In 2013

Despite the sluggishness of both the economy and business jet sales, Bombardier Aerospace is continuing to move forward with its Learjet 85 program. To date over 30 major suppliers have been engaged and are active in the joint definition phase. Several product development milestones, including the completion of our second proof of concept fuselage and the successful completion of all wind tunnel testing have been achieved as the program forges ahead for entry into service in 2013.

“We have completed over 60 significant program milestones as proofpoints to our progress,” said Ralph Acs, vice-president, Learjet 85. “We are currently well into the joint definition phase, have firm agreements with all major suppliers on the program including, propulsion, air systems, avionics, electrical, hyrdo-mechanics, structures and interiors. We are also progressing as planned with the Wichita and Mexico site expansions as we prepare for production.”

The aircraft’s outside mold has been frozen and the team is gearing up to start the detailed design phase later this year, and with the basic structure defined, the Learjet team and the supply base are progressing very well with the installation of systems. All suppliers are working with a common tool (CATIA V5) to ensure the structure and all systems are fully integrated.

The Learjet 85 wing development is also progressing steadily with a proof of concept wing demonstrator underway. The team is benefiting from best practices and principles from the CSeries aircraft program regarding composite wing build concepts.

In tandem with product development, Learjet is also progressing with the ramp up and expansion of production and final assembly sites for the Learjet 85 aircraft. The complete plan includes new buildings at the Queretaro site, which will be responsible for primary structure manufacturing and pre-assembly, while the Wichita site expansion will be for final assembly and delivery of the Learjet 85 aircraft.

Over 60 Learjet 85 production employees have completed their composites technology and application training and are currently working side-by-side with the development team on producing the various concept models and coupons required for the program development.

FMI: www.bombardier.com