PLANEPEDIA
Homechevron_rightComparisonschevron_rightLearjet 85 vs Learjet 55C
Bombardier

Learjet 85

Learjet 85
Starting List Price

$20.8M

Bombardier

Learjet 55C

Learjet 55C
Starting List Price

$8.5M

Technical Specification Matrix

Preferred Metric
speed

Performance Metrics

ParameterLearjet 85Learjet 55C
Max Range (NBAA IFR)3,000 nmWinner
2,040 nm
Max Cruise SpeedMach 0.82Winner (Speed)
Mach 0.81
Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW)4,800 ftShort Field
5,000 ft
Max Operating Altitude49,000 ft51,000 ft
airline_seat_recline_extra

Cabin Environment

Max Certified Seating8 pax10 pax
Cabin Width6.1 ftWider
5.9 ft
Cabin Altitude @ FL4107,000 ftLower Altitude
8,000 ft

Expert Insights

Range & Capability

The Learjet 85 excels in sheer capability with a 3000nm range, making it preferred for extreme ultra-long-haul city pairs, whereas the Learjet 55C counters with 2040nm.

Cabin Architecture

While the Learjet 85 focuses on its 2-zone configuration (6.1ft wide), the Learjet 55C provides 5.9ft of width, offering a distinctly different volumetric feel for passengers.

Technological Edge

The Learjet 85 remains useful to understand because it shaped Bombardier's position in business avia... Both platforms represent the pinnacle of modern fly-by-wire avionics and systems redundancy in the mid size class.

Operating Economics (Est.)

Variable Costs Per Hour

Learjet 85$2,857/hr
Learjet 55C$1,898/hr

Economic Note

Estimates based on 450 hours annual utilization. The Learjet 55C shows higher fuel efficiency resulting in lower direct variable costs per hour, while both airframes require similar fixed overheads for crew and hangarage.