The True Operating Cost of Bombardier Learjet 45

The Bombardier Learjet 45 is a proven midsize business jet offering six-seat executive configuration, intercontinental range (3,500+ nm), and 51,000-foot altitude capability. Plan for $160,000–$195,000 annually in operating costs at 100 flight hours, or $1,600–$1,950 per hour. The Learjet 45 dominates the midsize market with legendary speed, reliability, and charter availability. Perfect for corporations, charter operators, and demanding business travelers.

Quick Specs: Bombardier Learjet 45XR

Specification Learjet 45XR
Engines 2 × Honeywell TFE731-2 (3,500 lbf thrust each)
Fuel Burn 185–225 gal/hr cruise
Cruise Speed 460–490 mph
Service Ceiling 51,000 ft
Useful Load 4,200–4,500 lbs
Seats 6–8 (executive to high-density)
Range 3,000–3,500 nm

TL;DR: Bombardier Learjet 45 Annual Operating Cost Summary

  • Fixed costs: $62,000–$78,000/year (insurance $12,000–$18,000, hangar $12,000–$15,000, annuals $8,000–$12,000, crew training)
  • Variable costs at 100 hours: $98,000–$117,000/year (Jet-A fuel, oils, engine reserves)
  • Total at 100 hours: $160,000–$195,000/year (~$1,600–$1,950/hour)
  • Finance a $4,000,000 Learjet 45: Add $59,000/month ($708,000/year) at 6.5% over 10 years
  • At 50 hours: ~$131,000–$155,500/year (~$2,620–$3,110/hour)
  • At 200 hours: ~$260,000–$312,000/year (~$1,300–$1,560/hour)

Midsize Jet Operating Costs

Fixed Costs

Variable Costs (per flight hour)

Jet Fuel & Operating Economics

Fuel Cost Breakdown

Annual Hours Gallons Jet-A Cost @ $5.50/gal $/Hour
50 10,250 $56,375 $1,127
100 20,500 $112,750 $1,127
150 30,750 $169,125 $1,127
200 41,000 $225,500 $1,127

Maintenance & Engine Reserves

Honeywell TFE731 Engines

Jet-Specific Maintenance

Insurance & Storage

Jet Insurance Premiums

Storage Costs

Option Monthly Annual
Jet Hangar (Heated) $1,000–$1,250 $12,000–$15,000
Tie-Down (Not recommended) $400–$600 $4,800–$7,200

Annual Ownership Scenarios

Operating Cost (Not Financed)

Hours/Year Fixed Variable Total $/Hour
50 $70,000 $95,000 $165,000 $3,300
100 $70,000 $190,000 $260,000 $2,600
200 $70,000 $380,000 $450,000 $2,250

Total Cost of Ownership (With Financing)

Assume $4,000,000 Learjet 45, 6.5% APR, 10 years = $708,000/year debt service.

Hours/Year Operating Finance Total $/Hour
100 $260,000 $708,000 $968,000 $9,680
200 $450,000 $708,000 $1,158,000 $5,790

Financing the Bombardier Learjet 45

Lender Requirements: 650+ credit, commercial/ATP rated, $500,000+ annual income, comprehensive business plan, hull insurance $5M+. Lenders like JakenAviation specialize in midsize jet financing for corporations and charter operators.

Learjet 45 vs. Competitors

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Sources: Bombardier Learjet Specs | AOPA Owner Reports | FAA TCDS