History of the Learjet 60 XR Jet
The Learjet 60 first flew on October 10, 1990. Bombardier built it in Wichita, Kansas, and 318 of the original model were delivered before production of that version ended in 2007.
The 60 XR followed, starting at serial number 319. It kept the airframe and the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A engines, and added Pro Line 21 avionics and a reworked interior. In July 2012 Bombardier announced a temporary production pause for the 60 XR, to begin in the fourth quarter of 2012. Bombardier later ended all Learjet production. It announced the decision in February 2021, and the final Learjet was delivered in March 2022.
Overview of the Learjet 60 XR Jet
The 60 XR sits at the top of the Learjet family for range. It is a classic Learjet design: a slim fuselage, a fast climb and a high ceiling. It suits trips that are too long for a light jet but do not need a large cabin, such as New York to Florida or a cross-country trip with one fuel stop.
Specifications and Performance of the Learjet 60 XR
Dimensions of the Learjet 60 XR
Bombardier's fact sheet lists these figures:
- Length: 58.69 ft
- Wingspan: 41.81 ft
- Cabin length: 17.67 ft
- Cabin width: 5.95 ft
- Cabin height: 5.71 ft
- Crew: 2
- Passengers: up to 8 + 1
Range and Speed of the Learjet 60 XR
- Maximum range: 2,405 nautical miles (NBAA IFR 100 nm reserves, ISA, four passengers and two crew)
- High-speed cruise: Mach 0.81, 466 knots
- Typical cruise: Mach 0.79, 453 knots
- Long-range cruise: Mach 0.74, 426 knots
- Maximum operating altitude: 51,000 ft
- Climb: to an initial cruise altitude of 41,000 ft in 18 minutes 30 seconds after a maximum-weight takeoff
- Takeoff distance: 5,450 ft (sea level, ISA, maximum takeoff weight)
- Landing distance: 3,420 ft (sea level, ISA, maximum landing weight)
Published range assumes four passengers. A full cabin, heavy bags, headwinds or a short runway all reduce how far the jet can fly nonstop on the day.
Fuel Efficiency of the Learjet 60 XR
Fuel burn depends on the load, the altitude, the speed and the route. Each PW305A engine produces 4,600 pounds of thrust and is controlled by FADEC. Reported cruise figures put average fuel burn around 1,300 pounds per hour. For a real trip, ask the operator for an estimate on your route instead of relying on an average.
Design Features of the Learjet 60 XR
Interior Design of the Learjet 60 XR
The cabin is 17.67 feet long, a little under six feet wide and about 5 feet 8 inches high. Most passengers will stoop slightly to move around. Layouts vary by aircraft, so check the seat map with the operator. Bombardier's fact sheet lists forward and aft bulkhead monitors and a moving map for passengers.
Technology Features of the Learjet 60 XR
The flight deck uses the all-digital Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 system with four LCD displays. Bombardier lists dual flight management systems, dual navigation and communication radios, dual attitude heading reference systems, a digital engine indication system and an integrated flight instrument system with electronic charts.
Safety Record of the Learjet 60 XR
Safety Features of the Learjet 60 XR
Standard safety equipment on the fact sheet includes a Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II) and an Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) with windshear alerts. The aircraft is flown by a crew of two.
For charter, the record that matters most is the operator's. Ask who operates the flight, which certificate it flies under and how the crew is trained.
Ownership and Purchase Options for the Learjet 60 XR
Cost of Owning a Learjet 60 XR
Prices on the used market change with the year, the hours, the engine program and the interior. In September 2018, 112 Learjet 60 XRs were in service, and reported prices ranged from about $2.5 million for a 2007 model to about $4.0 million for a 2013 model. Treat those as a historical reference, not a current quote.
Availability of the Learjet 60 XR
No new 60 XRs are being built, so buyers shop the pre-owned market. Have any aircraft inspected before purchase, and review its maintenance records and engine program.
Leasing vs. Owning a Learjet 60 XR
If you fly a few trips a year, charter is often simpler than ownership. You pay for the flights you take, and the operator handles crew, maintenance and insurance. BLADE arranges private jet charters with licensed operators. Tell BLADE your route, date and group size, and compare the aircraft available for your trip.
Conclusion: Is the Learjet 60 XR Worth the Investment?
The 60 XR offers midsize range, a fast climb and a 51,000-foot ceiling in a compact cabin. It is a good fit for small groups on trips of a few hours. The trade-offs are a cabin you cannot stand up in and the fact that production has ended.
FAQs about What Is An Learjet 60 Xr Jet?
What is a Learjet 60 XR jet?
It is a midsize business jet, an upgraded version of the Learjet 60 with Pro Line 21 avionics and a redesigned cabin. It seats up to eight passengers plus one.
What sets Learjet mid-sized business jets apart from other aircraft?
Learjets are built for fast climbs and high ceilings. The 60 XR is certified to 51,000 feet, higher than many midsize jets, and climbs to 41,000 feet in about 18 minutes.
What is the range of a Learjet 60 XR jet?
Bombardier lists a maximum range of 2,405 nautical miles with four passengers and two crew, with NBAA IFR reserves.
What amenities can passengers expect on a Learjet 60 XR jet?
Bombardier lists bulkhead monitors and a moving map. Exact amenities vary by aircraft, so confirm Wi-Fi, catering and the lavatory with the operator.
Does the Learjet 60 XR jet come with a pilot?
On a charter, yes. The operator provides a crew of two pilots for every flight.