Midsize Jet - Legacy Production
Learjet 60: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
Bombardier Aerospace
Learjet 60: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Bombardier Learjet 60, produced from 1993 to 2007, is the midsize successor to the Learjet 55C and the first Learjet powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada engines (departing from the Honeywell TFE731 family that had powered every Learjet from the 35 onward). Powered by twin highly flat-rated Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A turbofan engines producing 4,600 lbf each, the Learjet 60 delivers 2,405 nautical miles of range with four passengers (NBAA reserves), 466 ktas (Mach 0.81) maximum cruise, and a 51,000 ft service ceiling typically operated with two pilots. The Learjet 60 reaches FL410 in just 18 minutes, restoring the brand's best-in-class climb performance reputation. A total of 318 Learjet 60 and 60SE aircraft were built across the 14-year production run. Pre-owned market today: $1.15 million (1993 models) to $2.7 million (2004-2007 60SE models).
For operators wanting a proven midsize Bombardier Learjet with best-in-class climb and 2,400+ nm range, the Learjet 60 remains a strong value choice.
Learjet 60 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Midsize Jet - Legacy Production |
| Production Status | Discontinued 2007 |
| Announced | October 1990 (just after Bombardier acquired Learjet) |
| First Flight | October 10, 1990 |
| FAA Type Certification | January 1993 |
| Production Years | 1993 to 2007 |
| Total Units Built | 318 (includes 60 and 60SE) |
| 60SE Replaced Standard 60 | 2004 (added luxury enhancements) |
| First Learjet With Non-Honeywell Engines | Yes (Pratt & Whitney Canada) |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Standard) | 6 to 7 |
| Passengers (Max) | 8 |
| Max Range (NBAA IFR, 4 pax) | 2,405 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | 466 ktas (533 mph, Mach 0.81) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 387 to 420 ktas |
| Normal Cruise Speed | Mach 0.76 (436 ktas) |
| Max Operating Altitude | 51,000 ft |
| Time to FL410 | 18 minutes |
| Engines | 2× Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A |
| Thrust per Engine | 4,600 lbf (9,200 lbf total) |
| Engine TBO | 5,000 to 6,000 hours |
| Fuel Burn | 1,300 lbs/hr (~204 gph) |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 23,500 lbs |
| Cabin Length | 17 ft 8 in |
| Cabin Width | 5.92 ft (71 in / 5'11") |
| Cabin Height | 5.71 ft (68.5 in / 5'9") |
| Cabin Volume | 447 cubic ft |
| External Baggage | 24 cu ft |
| In-Lavatory Baggage | 24 cu ft |
| Takeoff Distance | 5,920 ft |
| Landing Distance | 3,120 ft |
| Original Price (1993 New) | $11,000,000 |
| Pre-Owned Price (2025) | $1,150,000 to $2,700,000 |
History as the First Bombardier-Era Learjet
The Learjet 60 was announced in October 1990, just months after Bombardier acquired Learjet, marking the start of a new corporate era for the brand. Bill Greer, Learjet vice president of engineering, made a historic decision: turning to Pratt & Whitney Canada for engines, the first time a Learjet would not be powered by Honeywell (Garrett) TFE731 engines.
Platform timeline:
- 1990: Bombardier acquires Learjet
- October 1990: Learjet 60 announced
- October 10, 1990: First flight
- January 1993: FAA type certification
- 1993: First customer deliveries
- 2004: Learjet 60SE replaces standard Model 60 (luxury enhancements)
- 2007: Production ends after 318 aircraft (includes 60SE)
- 2007: Learjet 60XR enters production
The Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A engines (highly flat-rated at 4,600 lbf each) added 600 lbs of weight compared to the Model 55's TFE731-3 turbofans, but enabled the Learjet 60 to reach FL410 in 18 minutes, restoring Learjet's best-in-class climb performance reputation.
Key Improvements Over Learjet 55C
The Learjet 60 introduced multiple substantial upgrades:
1. Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A Engines
- 4,600 lbf thrust per engine: Vs 55C's 3,700 lbf TFE731-3AR (25% increase)
- Best-in-class thrust-to-weight ratio: For midsize segment
- Highly flat-rated: Performance maintained in hot/high conditions
- 5,000-6,000 hour TBO: Strong operating economics
- Modern combustion technology: Improved fuel efficiency
2. 43-Inch Fuselage Stretch
The 43-inch (3.6 ft) stretch over the Lear 55:
- Longer cabin: 17 ft 8 in vs 55's 16 ft 8 in
- Room for 6-7 passengers + full-width aft lavatory: Improved comfort
- Compensates for PW305A weight: Offsets 600 lb engine weight addition
3. "Ogive" Winglet Trailing Edge
The development of the "ogive" winglet trailing edge lowered drag and improved efficiency. Combined with subtle aerodynamic refinements, the 60 achieved 4% drag reduction compared to the Model 55.
4. One-Third Larger Fuselage Fuel Tank
The expanded fuselage fuel tank increased theoretical max range to nearly 2,400 nm, a 350 nm improvement over the 55C.
5. Modern Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 Avionics
Updated avionics suite replacing earlier Collins EFIS-85L.
Cabin Interior
The Learjet 60's stretched cabin provides meaningful improvements over the 55:
| Cabin Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 17 ft 8 in |
| Cabin Width | 5.92 ft (71 inches) |
| Cabin Height | 5.71 ft (68.5 inches - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 447 cubic ft |
Seating Configurations
- Standard 6-7 Passengers: Club seating + forward-facing seats
- Up to 8 Maximum: With aft lavatory belted seat
- Full-width aft lavatory: Standard with privacy door
- Full galley: Standard
- 24 cu ft external baggage: Standard
- 24 cu ft in-lavatory baggage: Additional capacity
Note: With all seven seats occupied, accommodating passenger baggage may pose challenges. The 24 cu ft external baggage plus 24 cu ft in-lavatory space totals 48 cu ft, modest for a midsize jet.
Learjet 60SE Enhancements (2004-2007)
The Learjet 60SE (Special Edition) replaced the standard Model 60 in 2004 with:
- Plated trim and wood veneer: Luxury appointments
- Upgraded carpeting: Premium quality
- 10-disc CD/DVD system with 15.1" forward cabin monitor: In-flight entertainment
- TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System): Safety upgrade
- Auxiliary Power Unit (APU): Ground heating/cooling/power without engine starts
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | 466 ktas (533 mph, Mach 0.81) |
| Normal Cruise Speed | Mach 0.76 (436 ktas) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 387 to 420 ktas |
| Range (NBAA IFR, 4 pax) | 2,405 nm |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft |
| Time to FL410 | 18 minutes (best in class) |
Runway Performance
| Field Performance | Value |
|---|---|
| Takeoff Distance | 5,920 ft |
| Landing Distance | 3,120 ft |
The Learjet 60's takeoff distance is slightly longer than midsize competitors (Cessna Citation XLS, Gulfstream G150).
Engines
Two highly flat-rated Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A turbofan engines, each producing 4,600 lbf of thrust (9,200 lbf total).
PW305A features:
- Flat-rated: Maintains thrust in hot/high conditions
- FADEC control: Standard
- 5,000-6,000 hour TBO: With Pratt & Whitney Eagle Service Plan extensions available
- Engine reserve: ~$360-379 per hour per engine
- Modern combustion: Improved efficiency
This was historically significant as the first Learjet without Honeywell TFE731 engines.
Avionics
Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 integrated avionics suite:
- Multiple EFIS displays: Modern for early-1990s
- Integrated flight management: Standard
- Weather radar: Standard
- Common retrofits: ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV upgrades
The 60XR successor (2007) introduced Pro Line 21, a major upgrade.
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel (~204 gph) | $1,428 to $1,836 |
| Engine Reserve | $720 (per engine, both engines) |
| Airframe Maintenance | $500 |
| Misc Variable | $300 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$2,948 to $3,356/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $2.5 to $2.7 million all-in.
Annual operating budget at 200 hours (per Air Charter Advisors): approximately $990,000.
Charter rates: $3,500 to $4,800 per hour.
Pricing
| Year Range | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 2004 to 2007 Learjet 60SE (final production) | $2,500,000 to $2,700,000 |
| 2000 to 2003 Learjet 60 | $1,800,000 to $2,400,000 |
| 1996 to 1999 Learjet 60 | $1,400,000 to $1,800,000 |
| 1993 to 1995 Learjet 60 (early production) | $1,150,000 to $1,500,000 |
Per VREF aircraft value guide: Model 60 enrolled in Pratt & Whitney Eagle Service Plan: $1.15 million (1993) up to $2.4 million (2004). Learjet 60SE: $2.5 to $2.7 million.
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- Step-Up From Learjet 55C: Substantial engine, range, and avionics improvements
- Midsize Operators Wanting Best-in-Class Climb: FL410 in 18 minutes
- Charter Operators: Strong midsize platform with proven 318-aircraft fleet
- Operators With Strong P&WC Eagle Service Plan Commitment: Engine programs essential
- Step-Up From Citation V Ultra: Stand-up cabin, Mach 0.81 cruise
Less suited if:
- You need modern Pro Line 21 avionics (consider 60XR)
- You need short-field operations (5,920 ft takeoff is long)
- You require single-pilot certification (consider CJ family)
- You want roomier cabin (Hawker 800XP, Citation Excel)
Pros and Cons
What the Learjet 60 Does Well
- 2,405 nm range with 4 passengers
- 466 ktas (Mach 0.81) max cruise speed
- Best-in-class climb (FL410 in 18 minutes)
- PW305A engines (first non-Honeywell Learjet)
- 51,000 ft service ceiling
- 318-aircraft fleet (strong parts and operator support)
- Stand-up cabin with proven Learjet platform heritage
Tradeoffs to Understand
- 5,920 ft takeoff distance (long for class)
- Cabin 2-5 ft shorter than competing midsize jets (Hawker 800XP)
- Tank-full payload limited (with 5,010 lb aft fuselage tank)
- Critical CG shift as aft fuel burns off (preflight planning important)
- Pro Line 4 avionics dated vs Pro Line 21 (60XR upgrade)
- Engine reserve significant ($720+ per hour)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Learjet 60 different from the Learjet 55C?
The 60 (1993) added Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A engines (4,600 lbf each, vs 55C's 3,700 lbf TFE731-3AR), 43-inch fuselage stretch, "ogive" winglet trailing edge, one-third larger fuselage fuel tank, Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics, and substantially improved range (2,405 nm vs 1,870 nm). It also introduced best-in-class climb performance to FL410 in 18 minutes.
How is the Learjet 60SE different from the Learjet 60?
The 60SE (2004) added luxury appointments including plated trim, wood veneer, upgraded carpeting, 10-disc CD/DVD with 15.1" forward cabin monitor, TCAS, and APU. Performance specifications and engines are identical to the standard 60.
How many Learjet 60s were built?
A total of 318 Learjet 60 and 60SE aircraft were built across the 1993 to 2007 production run.
Is the Learjet 60 single-pilot certified?
No. The Learjet 60 requires two pilots.
How far can a Learjet 60 fly?
The Learjet 60 has a maximum NBAA IFR range of 2,405 nautical miles with four passengers and full reserves.
Why did Learjet switch from Honeywell to Pratt & Whitney for the 60?
Bill Greer, Learjet vice president of engineering, sought engines with higher thrust to restore Learjet's best-in-class climb performance reputation. The Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A's 4,600 lbf thrust per engine (vs Honeywell TFE731-3AR's 3,700 lbf) enabled the desired climb performance, marking the first time a Learjet used non-Honeywell engines.
What is the difference between Learjet 60 and 60XR?
The 60XR (2007) added Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics (replacing Pro Line 4), three-rotor disc brakes (450-600 landings), upgraded cabin with five floor plans, LED lighting, improved insulation and cabin management system. The PW305A engines remained the same.
The Bottom Line
The Bombardier Learjet 60 represents a pivotal moment in Learjet history: the first aircraft of the Bombardier era, the first non-Honeywell-powered Learjet, and the platform that restored Learjet's best-in-class climb performance reputation. With 318 aircraft delivered across a 14-year production run, the 60 is well-supported with strong parts and operator infrastructure. At current pre-owned pricing of $1.15 million (1993 models) to $2.7 million (60SE final production), the Learjet 60 delivers genuine midsize jet capability at attainable cost. The tradeoffs are real: long takeoff distance, modest baggage capacity, and the operating reality that Bombardier discontinued the Learjet brand in 2022. But for performance-focused operators wanting Mach 0.81 cruise and 2,400+ nm range, the 60 remains compelling.
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 60 market intelligence and pre-buy diligence with attention to engine programs (Pratt & Whitney Eagle Service Plan strongly recommended) and avionics retrofits.
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Book a Learjet 60 on the Quantum Jets App by AVIA Technologies
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Download the Quantum Jets app on the Apple App Store (iOS app) or Google Play (Android app), then search the Learjet 60 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 60 Services from Quantum Jets
Quantum Jets supports Learjet 60 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 60 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 60 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 60-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 60 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 60 retains residual value over its operating life.
Fractional jet programs are available for Learjet 60-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 60 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 60 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 60XR: Direct Successor With Pro Line 21
- Learjet 55C: Predecessor Platform
- Citation XLS / Excel: Direct Competitor
- Hawker 800XP: Direct Competitor (Roomier Cabin)
Production of the Learjet 60 ended in 2007. All acquisitions are pre-owned. Bombardier discontinued the Learjet brand in 2022. Specifications accurate as of 2026.