Bombardier Aerospace launches Learjet NXT aircraft

All new Learjet aircraft positioned between the midsize and super midsize segments.

More than 65 letters-of-intent received to date

Corporate aviation leader Bombardier Aerospace today launched its all-new Learjet aircraft, provisionally named Learjet NXT, the next generation in Learjet excellence.

"I am extremely pleased to announce the launch of the Learjet NXT – an aircraft that is set to redefine the midsize jet category and set the standard against which all competitive aircraft will be measured," said Pierre Beaudoin, president and chief operating officer, Bombardier Aerospace.

"Development of this all-new jet with a group of international collaborators continues to progress well, and we are on target for a public unveiling of the next Learjet business jet in October 2008, in time to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the first flight of a Learjet aircraft," noted Mr. Beaudoin.

Building on legendary Learjet performance

True to its legendary heritage, the next Learjet aircraft is set to deliver the extraordinary performance Learjet aircraft owners expect. Targeting a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.82, the clean-sheet Learjet aircraft will offer its passengers a transcontinental range of up to 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km)*. Designed to provide a larger, more comfortable cabin than any existing midsize aircraft, this jet will offer eight passengers a stand-up cabin built to ensure superior productivity and comfort.

"The Learjet NXT development program will reaffirm Learjet's position as a leader in business aircraft innovation, offering passengers legendary Learjet performance, an extraordinary cabin, a superior level of technology and exceptional value," said Pierre Gabriel Côté, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft. "The design is customer-driven, based on what they have told us they need and want in a new midsize category business jet. To date, initial market interest in this next generation offering is strong, as we have received in excess of 65 letters of intent for this aircraft, which we expect to successfully convert into firm orders over the coming months."

Learjet is the first name in corporate aviation. Since acquiring Learjet Inc. in 1990, Bombardier has carried forward the brand's proud legacy by launching eight high-performance and fuel-efficient aircraft.