Bombardier today announced that London Air Services (LAS) has placed firm orders for five Learjet 85 aircraft, valued at approximately $86 million U.S., based on the 2008 list price of typically equipped aircraft. LAS is the first Canadian operator to place a firm order for the new all-composite jet.
“The new Learjet 85 business jet captures the essence that has made Learjet aircraft the most renowned business jet worldwide and combines this with the high-technology features and spacious cabin that operators need in this competitive environment,” stated Wynne Powell, President and Chief Operating Officer, London Air Services. “The midsize jet will be a valuable addition to our current aircraft fleet and will ensure we offer our customers the most innovative products available.”
Latest in a string of firsts for Canada-based London Air Services
In July 2008, LAS became the first Canadian operator to take delivery of a Challenger 605 jet. In September 2007, LAS became the launch customer for Bombardier's new Global Vision Flight Deck and, in late 2004, it was the first canadian operator to take delivery of a Learjet 45 XR aircraft.
The leading charter service provider based in Vancouver, Canada, currently has a fleet of nine Bombardier business aircraft, including six Learjet 45 XR aircraft, a Challenger 605 jet, a Challenger 604 jet and a Global Express XRS aircraft, which is scheduled to join the fleet in November 2008.
“Our longstanding relationship with London Air Services is built on the confidence they have in our products and services,” said Bob Horner, Senior Vice-President, sales, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We are encouraged by their interest in our newest Learjet model, and are proud to be part of the impressive growth of their business.”
The new Learjet 85 business jet-redefining the midsize business jet class
Launched on October 30, 2007, the new Learjet 85 aircraft will be the first Learjet aircraft to feature an all-composite structure and will be the first all-composite structure business jet designed for type certification under U.S. Federal Aviation Administration FAR Part 25.
An extraordinary advancement in next generation flight, the Learjet 85 aircraft's all-composite structure will allow Learjet designers to maximize cabin comfort while minimizing drag and improving performance. Designed to provide a larger, more comfortable cabin than any existing midsize aircraft, this jet will offer to up to eight passengers a stand-up cabin built to ensure superior productivity and comfort.
Building on legendary Learjet performance
True to its legendary heritage, the Learjet 85 aircraft is set to deliver the extraordinary performance, superior technology and exceptional value Learjet aircraft owners expect. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307B engines, the aircraft engines each boast 6,100 pounds of take-off thrust, while the low-emission combuster offers reduced environmental impact and improved fuel efficiency. The clean-sheet Learjet 85 aircraft targets a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.82 and a transcontinental range of up to 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km)*.
The new Learjet 85 aircraft flight deck combines advanced technology with superior design elements for a cockpit environment unlike any other midsize jet. The latest in technological advancements from Rockwell Collins – the new Pro Line Fusion avionics suite – is once again paired with superior design aesthetics from world-renowned design consultancy firm Design Q, to create the ultimate Learjet flight control environment.
Learjet is the first name in corporate aviation. Since acquiring Learjet Inc. in 1990, Bombardier Aerospace has carried forward the brand’s proud legacy by launching eight high-performance and fuel-efficient aircraft.
About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2008, were $17.5 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.