To mark the 40th anniversary of Learjet, Bombardier will be adding models 40 and 45XR to its existing Learjet line-up. Since the announcement, Eurojet Italia has ordered one Lear 40 for 2004 and has an option on another.

The 40 is a new light business jet - designed to fly four passengers from Athens to London in just under three hours - and the 45XR is an enhanced version of the Learjet 45.

Speaking just before this year’s Farnborough International show, president of Bombardier Business Aircraft Peter Edwards said: “These aircraft are a logical addition to our product line, offering greater speed and range than any competitive aircraft in their categories.

“Moreover, they offer owners and operators the added benefit of commonality with the Learjet 45

in terms of aftermarket services and enhancements.”

The Learjet 40 is scheduled to enter service in the first quarter of 2004. With four passengers and two crew, the aircraft will fly a maximum range of 1,803 nm under ISA conditions and IFR reserves. It will cruise at speeds of up to Mach .81 and will have a maximum operating altitude of 51,000 feet.

Scheduled to enter service in mid-2003, The Learjet 45XR will be able to carry eight passengers and two crew more than 2,000nm and offer faster climb times and increased maximum speeds, at given altitudes, than the Lear 45.

Bombardier says it also offers significant improvements out of more hot weather and high elevation locations, for example up to an additional 1,000nm out of Aspen, Colorado.

A spokesman said: “Improvements on the 45 include six inches more leg room in the cabin, two inches increased seat width and more galley storage.”

The 45 XR will have a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.81, a maximum operating altitude of 51,000 feet and maximum range of 2,098nm, with four passengers, ISA conditions and landing with

IFR reserves.

Current Lear 45 operators will be able to upgrade their aircraft to the performance level of the 45 XR through Bombardier service bulletins.