Learjet Bombardier Learjet 31

Twin Jet· 133 globally registered

The Learjet 31 is a light business jet developed by Learjet in the late 1980s as a stretched, modernized evolution of the iconic Model 35/36 family. First flown in 1987 and certified in 1988, the Model 31 added nearly three feet of fuselage length to accommodate up to eight passengers while retaining the trademark Learjet speed and agility that made the brand synonymous with executive aviation. Powered by twin Garrett TFE731-2 turbofans producing 3,500 pounds of thrust each, the aircraft cruises at 464 knots and reaches a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet, making it one of the highest-flying light jets of its era. The Model 31A variant, introduced in 1991 with improved avionics and Delta Fins for better handling, became the definitive production version and remained in manufacture until 1993, when Learjet shifted focus to the larger Model 60. With a range of approximately 1,300 nautical miles, the Learjet 31 carved out a niche as a fast point-to-point shuttle for corporate flight departments and charter operators who valued speed over transcontinental range. Its relatively short field performance and rapid climb rate made it popular at high-altitude airports and for time-sensitive missions. Though production ended three decades ago, the type remains active in the charter and owner-flown markets, prized for its low operating costs relative to newer light jets and its unmistakable Learjet pedigree. SkyMeter has tracked 278 flights across 58 airframes and 43 operators, with THUNDERUN AVIATION CORP the largest observed operator.