Wed, Jan 23, 2008
Say Hello To The Composite Learjet 85
Bombardier announced Tuesday the Learjet 85, formerly known as
the Learjet NXT, will be built by Grob Aerospace in Germany --
starting with three prototypes.
The Learjet 85 will be the first Bombardier jet to feature an
all-composite structure. It will also be the first all-composite
business jet designed for type certification under FAR Part 25. As ANN reported, Learjet
unveiled the new concept in October 2007.
"The Learjet 85 remains true to Learjet’s commitment to
innovation -- featuring the best in leading technology, design and
manufacturing," said Pierre Gabriel Côté, president,
Bombardier Business Aircraft. "Grob Aerospace is one of the
world’s most experienced companies in the development and
manufacture of composite aircraft structures. We are delighted to
welcome their participation on this latest Learjet-designed
aircraft."
Grob Aerospace CEO Niall Olver noted composites offer advantages
in weight and drag reduction, strength, manufacturing efficiency
and reduced maintenance over metal airframes.
"Since delivering our pioneering glider aircraft in the 1970s,
Grob has delivered more than 3,500 aircraft that have flown over
seven million hours on five continents," he said. "We look forward
to building the first Learjet 85 prototype structures and growing
our working relationship with Learjet. Work at Grob Aerospace on
the Learjet 85 adds an exciting manufacturing dimension to the
light business jets and trainer aircraft development and production
activity already going on at our facilities."
Bombardier says the clean-sheet Learjet 85 targets a high-speed
cruise of Mach 0.82 and a transcontinental range of up to 3,000
nautical miles. Designed to provide a larger, more comfortable
cabin than existing midsize aircraft, the Learjet 85 will offer
eight passengers a stand-up cabin built for productivity and
comfort.
Grob is currently developing its own all-composite,
turbofan-powered aircraft, the spn very light jet. The company
anticipates certification for the spn by the end of the year.
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