Premium Derivative To Enter Service In 2006

Bombardier Aerospace has introduced the new Bombardier Learjet 40 XR, an enhanced version of the Learjet 40 light business jet that entered service in January 2004.

The Learjet 40 XR surpasses the outstanding performance of the successful Bombardier Learjet 40 by flying even further under hot and high conditions and out of challenging airfields, and by delivering a faster time-to-climb performance and reducing flight times.

"The Bombardier Learjet 40 XR continues to raise the high standard we've established in the light business jet segment and exemplifies Bombardier's continued investment in our Learjet family," stated Peter Edwards, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "It will offer the highest performance in its class to fully satisfy those light jet operators with the most demanding mission requirements."

For example, taking off from Jackson Hole, Wyo., at 28 degrees Celsius, carrying six passengers and with full fuel, the Bombardier Learjet 40 XR will travel an additional 936 nautical miles compared to the Learjet 40.

It also delivers a faster time-to-climb performance under all conditions - particularly in hot and high operating environments - requiring only 23 minutes to reach 43,000 feet. The Bombardier Learjet 40 XR also offers a greater time advantage than the Learjet 40. With six passengers, it will connect Las Vegas-Atlanta in three hours, 28 minutes, and Jackson Hole-Teterboro in an impressive three hours, 39 minutes.

Featuring an increased maximum takeoff weight of 21,000 pounds, it offers a maximum non-stop range of 1,781 nautical miles with a six-passenger load and full fuel.

The aircraft is powered by newly upgraded Honeywell TFE731-20-BR twin turbofan engines, flat-rated to ISA +25C (104 F). These engines have been in service on the Bombardier Learjet 45 XR super light business jet since June. A total of 19 Learjet 45 XR aircraft have been delivered, and are meeting the high performance needs of operators.

U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval is expected in the fourth quarter of 2005, and the first Bombardier Learjet 40 XR will enter service shortly thereafter. A typically equipped Learjet 40 XR will be available for $400,000 U.S. more than a comparably equipped Learjet 40 business jet.

Current Bombardier Learjet 40 operators will be able to upgrade to the Learjet 40 XR through engine and airframe service bulletins available in late 2005.

FMI: www.bombardier.com