Learjet 40

Twin Jet· 81 globally registered

The Learjet 40 is a light business jet developed by Bombardier as an entry-level variant of the Learjet 45, certified in 2004. Designed to compete in the six-to-seven-passenger market, the LJ40 shares the 45's fuselage and wing but features a shortened cabin (by about three feet) and reduced fuel capacity to lower acquisition and operating costs. Powered by twin Honeywell TFE731-20BR turbofans, it delivers a maximum cruise speed of 465 knots and a range of approximately 1,500 nautical miles, making it ideal for short-to-medium-haul corporate shuttle missions across North America and Europe. The type's relatively modest operating envelope (service ceiling 51,000 feet, Mmo 0.81) positions it squarely in the light-jet category alongside competitors like the Citation CJ3 and Phenom 300. Production ended in 2013 after fewer than 100 units were built, as Bombardier shifted focus to larger models and eventually exited the Learjet program entirely. Despite its limited production run, the LJ40 remains popular in fractional ownership and charter fleets for its Learjet pedigree, responsive handling, and economical operating costs. SkyMeter has tracked 22 flights across 9 airframes and 3 operators, with FLEXJET LLC the largest observed operator.