Posted on September 16th, 2025
The Learjet 85 was Bombardier Aerospace’s ambitious business jet program, designed to bridge the gap between the midsize and super midsize jet markets. Announced in October 2007 and unveiled as a full-scale mockup at the NBAA show in Orlando in 2008, the Learjet 85 generated strong interest as the first all-composite business jet in Bombardier’s lineup. Although the program was ultimately cancelled, the aircraft remains a significant chapter in private aviation history. For today’s available options, JetOptions offers a full range of private jet charter services across midsize, super midsize, and long-range categories.
Bombardier launched the Learjet 85 project to modernize its Learjet brand and capture a market niche between the Learjet 60XR and larger Challenger series. Development was based in Wichita, Kansas, with a key production facility for composite components located in Querétaro, Mexico. The aircraft experienced multiple delays, with the first flight planned for 2013 but pushed back several times due to technical challenges and financial strain. In 2015, Bombardier cancelled the program as part of a company-wide restructuring, shifting resources toward the Global 7500 and Challenger 650 programs.
The Learjet 85 was to be the first business jet built primarily of composite materials, offering several advantages:
This innovation placed the Learjet 85 alongside a broader aerospace trend, as composite construction was gaining traction across both commercial and light jet charter aircraft.
Bombardier designed the Learjet 85 with a spacious stand-up cabin and enhanced passenger amenities. With seating for 8–10 travelers, the cabin was intended to offer midsize operating economics with super midsize levels of comfort. Features included:
| Engines | 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307B |
| Passenger Capacity | 8–10 |
| Range | ~3,000 nautical miles (planned) |
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.82 |
| Cruising Altitude | FL 490 (49,000 feet) |
| Cabin Dimensions | Height: 6 ft | Width: 6.1 ft | Length: 24.9 ft |
| Baggage Volume | ~130 cu ft |
The Learjet 85 was positioned to compete with aircraft such as the Cessna Citation X, Embraer Legacy 500, and Gulfstream G150/G200. By combining the range and cabin of a super midsize jet with the economics of a midsize aircraft, Bombardier sought to capture corporate flight departments and private jet charter users looking for an efficient, long-range option. Today, this market is well-served by alternatives like the Challenger 350 and Praetor 600.
Despite early excitement, escalating costs and delays hampered the program. In January 2015, Bombardier announced the cancellation of the Learjet 85, citing insufficient demand and the need to focus on more profitable programs, including the Challenger and Global series. The decision impacted the Wichita and Querétaro facilities, with a workforce reduction and a shift in Bombardier’s strategic priorities.
Although the Learjet 85 never entered service, the technological insights from its development influenced future Bombardier aircraft, particularly the Global 6500 and Global 7500. The program also represents a turning point in the Learjet brand, which was officially retired in 2021. For travelers who appreciate the heritage of Learjet design, JetOptions offers modern light jet charter and super midsize jet charter solutions.
Was the Learjet 85 ever built?
A prototype was constructed and ground-tested, but the aircraft never achieved certification or entered service.
Why was the Learjet 85 cancelled?
Bombardier cancelled the program in 2015 due to rising development costs, delays, and insufficient market demand.
What was the Learjet 85’s planned range?
The aircraft was designed for a range of approximately 3,000 nautical miles, placing it in the super midsize category.
While the Learjet 85 never entered service, JetOptions offers a wide selection of midsize and super midsize aircraft available for charter today. Choose from Bombardier Challenger jets, Gulfstream charters, or Embraer Praetor jets for your next private flight.
