Midsize Jet - Legacy Production
Learjet 55C: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
Learjet (later Bombardier)
Learjet 55C: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Learjet 55C, produced from 1988 to 1990, is the most-refined variant of the Learjet 55 "Longhorn" family, introducing distinctive Delta Fins for stability, updated under-fuselage aerodynamics, reduced landing speed, and the modern 5-tube Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit. Powered by twin Honeywell TFE731-3AR turbofan engines producing 3,700 lbf each, the 55C delivers 1,870 nautical miles of range, 490 ktas maximum cruise, and a 51,000 ft service ceiling typically operated with two pilots. The Learjet 55C/ER (Extended Range) variant added additional fuel in the tail cone for further range improvement. Pre-owned market today: average $950,000.
For operators wanting the most-refined version of the Learjet 55 platform with Delta Fins and full glass cockpit, the 55C is the definitive choice.
Learjet 55C Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Midsize Jet - Legacy Production |
| Production Status | Discontinued 1990 |
| Production Years | 1988 to 1990 (succeeded 55B in 1987) |
| FAA Certification | 1988 |
| Total Learjet 55 Family Built | 147 (includes 55, 55B, 55C, 55C/ER, 55C/LR) |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Standard) | 7 |
| Passengers (Max) | 10 (high density) |
| Max Range (NBAA IFR, seats full, LRC) | 1,870 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | 490 ktas |
| Long-Range Cruise | 447 ktas |
| Max Operating Altitude | 51,000 ft |
| Engines | 2× Honeywell TFE731-3AR turbofans |
| Thrust per Engine | 3,700 lbf (7,400 lbf total) |
| Avionics | 5-tube Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit |
| AHRS | Collins AHS-85 |
| Weather Radar | Collins WXR-350 |
| Autopilot | Collins APS-85 |
| Communications | Dual Collins Pro Line 2 VHS |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 21,000 lbs |
| Payload With Maximum Fuel | 1,788 lbs |
| Cabin Length | 16 ft 8 in |
| Cabin Width | 5.92 ft (71 in) |
| Cabin Height | 5.67 ft (68 in, stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 403 cubic ft |
| Total Baggage Volume | 60 cu ft (40 internal + 20 external) |
| Balanced Field Length | 5,655 ft |
| Landing Distance | 4,009 ft |
| Original Price (1988-1990) | $6,900,000 |
| Pre-Owned Price (2025) | $750,000 to $1,200,000 |
| Average Pre-Owned Price | $950,000 |
History as the Refined Final Learjet 55
The Learjet 55C evolved from the 55B design in 1987, receiving FAA certification in 1988 and entering production immediately. The 55C represented the most-refined variant of the 50 series, with multiple aerodynamic and systems improvements:
Platform timeline:
- 1986: Learjet 55B introduced (digital flight deck, modified wings, improved takeoff performance)
- 1987: 55B design evolves to 55C with Delta Fins
- 1988: FAA certification of Learjet 55C
- 1988-1990: Production run
- 1990: Production ends (147 total 55-family aircraft built)
- 1993: Learjet 60 introduced as successor
The 55C/ER (Extended Range) variant added fuel capacity in the tail cone, and the 55C/LR added even more fuel capacity for the longest-range Learjet 55 missions.
Key Improvements: 55C vs 55B
The Learjet 55C introduced multiple meaningful refinements:
Delta Fins (Anhedral Tail Cone Fins)
The distinctive Delta Fins added to the tailcone provide:
- Improved stability: Better handling at all speeds
- Reduced landing speed: Better short-field performance
- Improved runway performance: Lower required landing distance
- Enhanced approach handling: Better pilot control authority
Updated Under-Fuselage Design
The 55C's redesigned underbelly improves aerodynamic efficiency over the 55B.
5-Tube Collins EFIS-85L Glass Cockpit
Standard equipment includes a 5-tube Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit with:
- Five color CRT displays: Modern for the era
- Central multi-function display: Standard
- Collins AHS-85 AHRS: Attitude and heading reference
- Collins WXR-350 weather radar: Standard
- Collins APS-85 autopilot: Integrated autopilot
- Dual Collins Pro Line 2 VHS comms: Standard
Cabin Interior
The Learjet 55C cabin retains the 55's stand-up dimensions:
| Cabin Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 16 ft 8 in |
| Cabin Width | 5.92 ft (71 inches) |
| Cabin Height | 5.67 ft (68 inches - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 403 cubic ft |
Seating Configurations
- Standard 7-Passenger Executive: Comfortable club seating
- Up to 10 Maximum: High-density layouts
- Enclosed aft lavatory: Standard
- Galley: Standard
- 60 cu ft baggage: 40 internal + 20 external
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | 490 ktas |
| Long-Range Cruise | 447 ktas |
| Range (NBAA IFR, seats full) | 1,870 nm |
| Range (55C/ER, with tail tank) | ~2,200 nm |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft |
Runway Performance
| Field Performance | Value |
|---|---|
| Balanced Field Length | 5,655 ft |
| Landing Distance | 4,009 ft |
Note: The 55C's balanced field length is meaningfully longer than the standard 55's 4,875 ft. The increase reflects higher MTOW and additional aircraft systems.
Engines
Two Honeywell TFE731-3AR turbofan engines, each producing 3,700 lbf of thrust (7,400 lbf total). The TFE731-3AR is part of the proven TFE731 engine family.
Avionics
The 5-tube Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit was advanced for 1988. Standard package:
- EFIS-85L: 5 color CRT displays
- Central multi-function display: Standard
- Collins AHS-85: AHRS
- Collins WXR-350: Weather radar
- Collins APS-85: Autopilot
- Dual Collins Pro Line 2: Comm and nav radios
- Common retrofits: Modern Garmin GPS, ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel (~210 gph) | $1,470 to $1,890 |
| Engine Reserve | $400 |
| Airframe Maintenance | $550 |
| Misc Variable | $300 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$2,720 to $3,140/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $2.25 million all-in.
Charter rates: $3,200 to $4,000 per hour.
Pricing
| Variant | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Learjet 55C (1988-1990, standard) | $750,000 to $1,100,000 |
| Learjet 55C/ER (Extended Range) | $850,000 to $1,200,000 |
| Learjet 55C/LR (Long Range) | $900,000 to $1,300,000 |
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- Step-Up From Standard Learjet 55: Glass cockpit, Delta Fin stability
- Lower-Cost Midsize Operation: Sub-$1.5M acquisition
- Charter Operators: Stand-up cabin appeal
- Operators Wanting Extended Range: 55C/ER or 55C/LR variants
Less suited if:
- You need modern integrated touchscreen avionics
- You require single-pilot certification
- You need short-field operations (5,655 ft balanced field)
- You want substantial cabin upgrade (consider Lear 60)
Pros and Cons
What the Learjet 55C Does Well
- Most-refined Learjet 55 variant
- 5-tube Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit (advanced for 1988)
- Delta Fins for stability
- Stand-up cabin (5'7" headroom)
- 51,000 ft service ceiling
- 490 ktas max cruise
- 1,870 nm range
- Updated under-fuselage aerodynamics
- Reduced landing speed
Tradeoffs to Understand
- Production ended 1990 (35+ year old airframes)
- 5,655 ft balanced field length (longer than 55)
- Avionics dated despite 1988 EFIS pioneer
- Two-pilot operation required
- Cabin shorter than competing midsize jets
- Bombardier Learjet brand discontinued 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Learjet 55C different from the Learjet 55B?
The 55C (1988) added Delta Fins for improved stability and reduced landing speed, updated under-fuselage aerodynamic design, and refined systems. The 55B (1986) had introduced the digital flight deck and modified wings; the 55C built on these foundations.
How many Learjet 55Cs were built?
The Learjet 55C is part of the 147-aircraft Learjet 55 family production. Specific 55C production numbers are part of this total (the 55C and its ER/LR variants represent the later production years of the platform).
How is the Learjet 55C/ER different from the standard 55C?
The 55C/ER (Extended Range) added additional fuel capacity in the tail cone, extending range from approximately 1,870 nm to approximately 2,200 nm. The 55C/LR (Long Range) added even more fuel capacity for further range extension.
Is the Learjet 55C single-pilot certified?
No. The Learjet 55C requires two pilots.
How far can a Learjet 55C fly?
The standard Learjet 55C has a maximum NBAA IFR range of 1,870 nautical miles with seats full. The 55C/ER extends this to approximately 2,200 nm.
What are Delta Fins?
Delta Fins are distinctive anhedral fins added to the tailcone of the Learjet 55C (and later Learjet 31A and other Bombardier Learjets). They provide improved stability across all flight regimes, reduced landing speed, better short-field performance, and enhanced pilot control authority during approach.
What replaced the Learjet 55C?
The Learjet 60 (1993) replaced the Learjet 55C with PW305A engines (replacing the TFE731), 43-inch fuselage stretch, and substantially improved range.
The Bottom Line
The Learjet 55C is the most-refined variant of the foundational Learjet 55 platform, delivering Delta Fin stability, Collins EFIS-85L glass cockpit, updated aerodynamics, and reduced landing speed at attainable pre-owned pricing. The 55C/ER and 55C/LR extended-range variants provide additional capability for longer missions. With production ended over 35 years ago and the Learjet brand now discontinued, the 55C represents historical Learjet engineering at its 1988-era peak.
Quantum Jets supports the platform across private jet charter, private jet rental, private jet card programs, aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, and aircraft leasing structures.
Talk to a Quantum Jets broker for Learjet 55C market intelligence and pre-buy diligence with attention to engine programs and avionics retrofits.
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Book a Learjet 55C on the Quantum Jets App by AVIA Technologies
The Quantum Jets mobile app, built by AVIA Technologies, is the private jet charter marketplace app for the Learjet 55C and the rest of the Quantum Jets catalog. The Quantum Jets app is available as an iOS app on the Apple App Store and as an Android app on Google Play. Whether the goal is a one-off jet charter, recurring private jet rental, a private jet card program, or a deeper engagement spanning aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, aircraft leasing, or aircraft sales, the Quantum Jets app surfaces live Learjet 55C availability and routes the booking through the Quantum Jets brokerage team.
AVIA Technologies is the technology platform behind the Quantum Jets mobile app. The AVIA Technologies app powers the private jet charter marketplace experience: search the catalog, compare a Learjet 55C against alternatives in the same tier, pull live pricing, request a charter quote, schedule aircraft maintenance, list a Learjet 55C for jet sales, manage a fleet under aircraft management or private jet management, and execute a private jet card purchase, all from one private jet app. The Quantum Jets app and the AVIA Technologies app share the same backend so client data, trip history, and aircraft preferences carry across both surfaces.
Download the Quantum Jets app on the Apple App Store (iOS app) or Google Play (Android app), then search the Learjet 55C to start booking. The Quantum Jets mobile app is the fastest path from research to booking for any private jet, jet charter, private jet rental, or private jet charter marketplace transaction in the Quantum Jets catalog. AVIA Technologies maintains the private jet charter marketplace app on a continuous deployment schedule with new aircraft, new operators, and refined private jet management tooling shipping every release.
Learjet 55C Services from Quantum Jets
Quantum Jets supports Learjet 55C operators and prospective owners across the full lifecycle of private jet ownership. Whether the goal is jet charter for a one-off trip, a private jet rental for a busy season, or a private jet charter program tied to a recurring travel pattern, our team builds the right structure around the Learjet 55C for the mission.
For buyers, our aircraft purchase and jet purchase advisory walks through inspection, valuation, financing, and closing. Jet sales and aircraft sales clients work with our team to position the Learjet 55C for the strongest possible exit, with market intelligence on every comparable transaction. A private jet card program through Quantum Jets is a lower-commitment way to access Learjet 55C-class lift without a full aircraft purchase, and is structured to credit toward a future jet purchase when the time is right.
Once an aircraft is in hand, aircraft management and jet management at Quantum Jets cover crew, scheduling, regulatory compliance, charter revenue programs, and detailed reporting. Private jet management is structured to keep the Learjet 55C flying safely and profitably with minimum owner overhead. Aircraft maintenance is coordinated through manufacturer-authorized service centers, and aircraft refurbishment programs (interior, paint, avionics, connectivity) are managed end-to-end so the Learjet 55C retains residual value over its operating life.
Fractional jet programs are available for Learjet 55C-class travelers who want guaranteed access without sole ownership. Aircraft lease and aircraft leasing arrangements (operating, finance, dry, wet) are structured to match the operator's hours, geography, and balance sheet. The Learjet 55C fits naturally into all of these structures, and Quantum Jets handles the structuring, documentation, and lifecycle service so the owner can focus on flying.
If you are evaluating a Learjet 55C for purchase, charter, lease, fractional access, management, refurbishment, or sale, talk to a Quantum Jets broker for a custom market scan and pre-buy diligence.
Related Aircraft Guides:
- Learjet 55 (standard): Predecessor Variant
- Learjet 55B: Direct Predecessor (Pre-Delta Fin)
- Learjet 60: Major Successor Platform
Production of the Learjet 55C ended in 1990. All acquisitions are pre-owned. Bombardier discontinued the Learjet brand in 2022. Specifications accurate as of 2026.