Learjet 85 – First FAR Part 25 All-Composite Structure Jet

Grob Aerospace will develop the all-composite structure of the new Bombardier Aerospace Learjet 85 aircraft.

Grob will also build the first three prototype aircraft for the program. The Learjet 85 aircraft will be the first Bombardier Aerospace jet to feature an allcomposite structure and will be the first allcomposite structure business jet designed for type certification under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 25.

"Grob Aerospace is one of the world's most experienced companies in the development and manufacture of composite aircraft structures. We are delighted to welcome their participation on this latest Learjet-designed aircraft," says Pierre Gabriel Cote, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft.

An extraordinary advancement in next generation flight, the Learjet 85 aircraft's all-composite structure will allow Learjet designers to maximize cabin comfort, minimize drag, and improve performance. Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, reduced maintenance, and extended service life are key characteristics of all-composite airframes and the ultra-smooth surfaces of the carbon fiber structures permit superior aerodynamics. Other competitive advantages of composites include reduced structural part count and significantly less vulnerability to corrosion or fatigue damage than metal.

Accuracy and precision are inextricably linked to the entire composite material production process, with respect to aircraft components.

The use of precision molds is one of the numerous measures taken to guarantee the quality and efficiency required throughout the manufacturing process. Grob Aerospace will be making a sizeable investment to prepare for the Learjet 85 aircraft in terms of tooling, machinery, and workforce.

"Composite structures allow designers to optimize all aspects of the aircraft's internal cabin volume and exterior aerodynamic qualities, thus optimizing performance as well," says Niall Olver, CEO, Grob Aerospace. "We look forward to building the first Learjet 85 prototype structures and growing our working relationship with Learjet." learjet.com