Bombardier Learjet 85 Aircraft Program Progressing on Schedule
Parts fabrication started at Bombardier sites and with suppliers – over 150 composite tools delivered to date
-
- Detailed design phase 50 per cent complete, with over 3000 drawings released
- Seven supplier test rigs commissioned worldwide
- Wichita final assembly site expansion underway and Querétaro facility now operational
Bombardier Aerospace today announced that several new milestones have been reached in its Learjet 85 aircraft program development. The detailed design phase is now 50 per cent complete, and parts manufacturing is underway at Bombardier sites, as well as with suppliers. The development of manufacturing sites is also progressing on schedule, with the Wichita final assembly site expansion under way and the Querétaro facility commissioned for the start of parts fabrication. The program is on schedule for entry-into-service in 2013.
“We are very excited to see the program advancing with such great momentum,” said Steve Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Parts production for the first test aircraft is underway at Bombardier and supplier sites, and we continue to forge ahead with detailed design and systems testing. We are working together with all of our suppliers and continue to hit our program milestones. We are very encouraged by the progress we see each day.”
Program milestones
Over 150 of 1500 composite tools have been delivered to the Querétaro facility, allowing parts fabrication to begin. Suppliers have begun to order material components and have started producing development and production parts.
The first of two Rockwell Collins System Integrated Test Stations (SITS) began formal integration testing on September 13, 2010. The SITS is a static representation of the cockpit that includes actual displays, controls, panels and avionics computers and allows for integration testing of the avionics suite, as well as all other equipment that communicates with the avionics computers.
The SITS brings numerous benefits across the program, primarily in the areas of systems integration, product maturity, pilot and maintenance personnel training, production support and certification. In total, 63 test rigs will be commissioned worldwide to assure alignment with suppliers throughout the program, and to date, seven rigs have already been commissioned.
Site progress
Construction and readiness of manufacturing and assembly facilities for the Learjet 85 aircraft continue to progress according to plan. The Wichita Learjet site expansion is in progress following the July 2010 announcement of a $27 million USD bond financing from the State of Kansas. In Querétaro, tooling is on site and parts manufacturing has already begun. An inauguration ceremony for the new Learjet 85 aircraft building will be taking place on October 21.
The new Learjet 85 aircraft - redefining the midsize business jet class
Launched on October 30, 2007, the new Learjet 85 aircraft will be the first Bombardier Aerospace jet to feature a composite structure and wing and will be the first primarily composite structure business jet designed for type certification under U.S. Federal Aviation Administration FAR Part 25.
An extraordinary advancement in next-generation flight, the Learjet 85 aircraft’s composite structure will allow Learjet aircraft designers to maximize cabin comfort while minimizing drag and improving performance.
Building on legendary Learjet aircraft performance
True to its legendary heritage, the Learjet 85 aircraft is set to deliver the extraordinary performance, superior technology and exceptional value Learjet aircraft owners expect.
The jet is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307B engines, each boasting 6,100 pounds of take-off thrust each at sea level 86°F (30°C) and low noise levels, while the advanced low NOx emission combuster offers reduced environmental impact. The Learjet 85 aircraft targets a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.82 and a transcontinental range of up to 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km)*.
The new Learjet 85 aircraft flight deck combines advanced technology with superior design elements for a cockpit environment unlike any other midsize jet. The latest in technological advancements and superior design aesthetics from Bombardier’s Global Vision flight deck are carried over to the Learjet 85 aircraft in order to create the ultimate Learjet aircraft flight control environment.
The aircraft’s customized version Cabin Management System, developed by Lufthansa Technik, will feature a high-capacity Ethernet network with a digital amplifier to feed the high-fidelity speaker system and an interface to support the aircraft cabin environment, including lighting and temperature control. The system’s open architecture also allows for easy integration of third-party equipment and new applications, such as High Definition features.
Learjet is the first name in corporate aviation. Since acquiring Learjet Inc. in 1990, Bombardier Aerospace has carried forward the brand’s proud legacy by launching eight high-performance and fuel-efficient Learjet aircraft.
Source: BOMBARDIER
