Bombardier Learjet 40

The Learjet 40 (LJ40) is a light business jet manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace. It is derived from the Learjet 45 but features a shorter fuselage, reduced by 24.5 inches (60 cm). Powered by two Honeywell TFE731-20AR engines, also known as “AR” engines, the Learjet 40 replaces the discontinued Learjet 31a in the Learjet model line, incorporating performance and comfort enhancements from the Learjet 45 model.

The prototype aircraft, reconstructed from a Model 45, conducted its first flight on August 31, 2002, with the first production aircraft following on September 5, 2002. Both flights originated from Wichita Mid-Continent Airport, and the Learjet 40 entered service in January 2004.

An upgraded version, the Learjet 40XR, was introduced in October 2004. It offers higher takeoff weights, faster cruise speeds, and quicker time-to-climb rates compared to the LJ40, achieved through the installation of TFE731-20BR engines, also known as “BR” engines. Owners of LJ40 aircraft have the option to upgrade through the incorporation of several service bulletins.