Bombardier Business Aviation Services has successfully installed the Learjet 60 interior into a Learjet 55, and the Learjet 31A interior into a Learjet 35. Both retrofitting projects were developed at the request of long-time Learjet customers, and are the first such modifications of their kind.

"We had never done anything like this before," said George Gonzalez, vice president business aviation services. "The concept may seem simple enough, but in reality there were many obstacles that had to be overcome in order for the projects to work. In the end, however, the effort was well worth it considering the added value for our customers."

Customers of the Learjet ‘60 in 55’ modifications will benefit from a full aft lavatory that is belted and certified for take-off and landing. In addition, the renovation created the largest internal baggage compartment of any Learjet aircraft. Other benefits of the ‘60 in 55’ include a new cabin entertainment amplification system, larger and stronger work tables, and maintenance-friendly, pleated window shades.

Said Gonzalez: "As an added benefit of the ‘60 in 55’ renovation, the customer reported that the new interior resulted in a quieter and lighter Learjet 55.

"One of the major challenges of the retrofitting projects was determining which of the existing interior support brackets could be used. For the most part, however, most obstacles were overcome with ease. So much so that we are currently researching the possibility of offering interior modifications to other existing models.

"There are no specific requirements that a Learjet 55 or Learjet 35 customer’s plane must meet in order to receive the modifications. However, the complexity of the project is determined in large part by the existing floor plan of the aircraft, particularly if the lavatory must be moved to a new location."

The retrofits are currently being done in Wichita, but will eventually be offered in Hartford and Tucson, as well. In addition, Learjet 55 customers participated in a survey to gauge their expectations of a ‘60 in 55’ retrofit.

The information obtained through this survey will help shape the future of the modification projects.