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The Learjet 55 "Longhorn" is a business jet manufactured by Gates Learjet. The introduction of the Learjet 50 series occurred at the 1977 Paris air show. The winglets on the Learjet 55 were developed by NASA. The winglets gave the 55 the nickname "longhorn." Construction of the Learjet 55 began in April 1978 after extensive testing and work on the wing design which came, initially, from the Learjet 25. The Learjet 55 first flew on 19 April 1979. The first production aircraft were produced starting 18 March 1981. 147 Learjet 55 aircraft were delivered.

[edit] Variants

Learjet 54

Proposed 11-seat variant, not built.

Learjet 55

Learjet 55B

1986 - Improved version with a glass cockpit, improved take-off performance and increased range.

Learjet 55C

1987 - New rear underfuselage design, delta fins to increase stability and reduced the landing speed.

Learjet 55C/ER

Extended-range version of the Learjet 55C.

Learjet 55C/LR

Long-range version of the Learjet 55C, fitted with an extra tank, carrying an extra 259 lb of fuel in the tail cone.

Learjet 56

Proposed eight-seat version, not built.

[edit] Specifications (Learjet 55)

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General characteristics

• Crew: 2
• Capacity: 7 passengers
• Length: 55 ft 1 in (16.80 m)
• Wingspan: 42 ft 9 in (13.35 m)
• Height: 14 ft 8 in (4.48 m)
• Wing area: 264.5 ft² (24.57 m²)
• Empty weight: 12,860 lb (5,830 kg)
• Max takeoff weight: 21,500 lb (9,750 kg)
• Powerplant: 2× [[Honeywell / Garrett TFE731-3A or TFE731-3AR. The TFE731-3A engine produces 3,700 lbs of static thrust at sea level. The TFE731-3AR engine produces 3,700 lbs of static thrust at sea level with Automatic Power Reserve 'APR' producing 3,880 lbs of thrust when operating.]]

Performance

• Maximum speed: 549 mph (477 knots, 884 km/h)
• Cruise speed: 462 mph (402 knots, 744 km/h)
• Range: 2,582 mi (2,244 nm, 4,156 km)
• Service ceiling: 51,000 ft (15,500 m)

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