Charter a Learjet 60

The Learjet 60 is the final Learjet to use a development of the original Bill Lear wing design adapted from Swiss military aircraft - and the first Learjet powered by Pratt and Whitney Canada engines. Developed as a stretched, re-engined evolution of the Learjet 55, the Model 60 fuselage was extended by 43 inches over the 55, expanding cabin length and adding legroom while retaining the 55's stand-up cabin height and Longhorn winglet wing. The prototype first flew on 10 October 1990 - announced immediately after Bombardier's acquisition of Learjet Inc. - and FAA certification was received in January 1993 with first deliveries that year. The defining engine change from the Learjet 55's Honeywell TFE731-3A-2B (3,700 lbf) to the Pratt and Whitney Canada PW305A (4,600 lbf; FADEC) provided 900 lbf more thrust per engine, FADEC control, a 6,000-hour TBO and improved fuel efficiency. 318 Learjet 60s were built between 1993 and 2007. The Learjet 60SE (2004) added an APU, entertainment system and interior upgrades as a transitional model. The Learjet 60XR (2007-2013) upgraded the cockpit to Collins Pro Line 21 avionics with four 8x10-inch displays, three-rotor steel disc brakes, improved insulation and five cabin floor plans; 114 were built.

The Learjet 60XR is confirmed by Air Charter Advisors as having "the largest Learjet cabin" - 5.39 m (17.7 ft) long, 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in) wide and 1.74 m (5 ft 7 in) high. The ogive winglet - a smoothed trailing-edge profile at the wing-winglet junction - reduced drag at this location and was a Learjet first on the Model 60. Dual Delta Fins (two, replacing the single on the Learjet 55) provide directional stability and improved stall characteristics. The Learjet 60 reaches FL410 in 18 minutes at maximum takeoff weight - among the fastest climb rates in the midsize jet category. Charter prices start from approximately £2,200 per flight hour. For the full fleet see our private jet price guide or browse our complete fleet.

Why charter the Learjet 60?

• PW305A engines with FADEC at 4,600 lbf - first Learjet with Pratt and Whitney Canada turbofans; 900 lbf more than Learjet 55; 6,000-hr TBO. The switch from the Honeywell TFE731-3A-2B (3,700 lbf) to the Pratt and Whitney Canada PW305A (4,600 lbf) was the defining performance upgrade of the Learjet 60 programme. Each PW305A produces 4,600 lbf - 24% more thrust than the 55's TFE731 engines. Wikipedia confirmed the PW305A features FADEC control and a 6,000-hour TBO. ChooseMyPlane confirmed the Learjet 60 "corrected the 55's primary criticisms: the older TFE731 engines, mechanical thrust management and analog instrumentation." The FADEC control eliminates manual thrust management, reducing pilot workload and improving fuel efficiency. Fuel burn is 204 gph - competitive for the 2,405 nm NBAA IFR range and 51,000 ft ceiling the engines deliver;
• FL410 in 18 minutes at maximum takeoff weight - one of the fastest climb rates in the midsize jet category. Wikipedia confirmed the Learjet 60 "climbs to FL410 in 18 minutes" at maximum takeoff weight - a benchmark that ChooseMyPlane described as "one of the top time-to-climb rates in the midsize category." The rapid climb to altitude minimises time in commercial traffic layers, reduces exposure to weather at lower altitudes and maximises time at efficient cruise altitude. At 51,000 ft the Learjet 60 operates above all commercial traffic and above all convective weather on European and medium-range sectors. The combination of fast climb and 51,000 ft ceiling gives the Learjet 60 a weather and traffic avoidance profile that exceeds most midsize competitors;
• Largest Learjet cabin - 5.39 m × 1.81 m × 1.74 m; +43 inches over Learjet 55; 8 standard passengers; widest Learjet cabin available. Air Charter Advisors confirmed the Learjet 60 provides "the largest Learjet cabin" with dimensions 17 ft 8 in long, 5 ft 11 in wide and 5 ft 7 in high. ChooseMyPlane confirmed the 60 "stretched the fuselage of the predecessor Learjet 55 by 43 inches, including an 18-inch expansion of the cabin and extra legroom." The 1.81 m cabin width is the widest in the Learjet family - including the 45XR (1.55 m) and the 55 (1.80 m). The standard configuration of five executive slide/swivel chairs plus a two-seat forward side-facing divan provides seven seats; eight are in the standard executive configuration. The enclosed aft lavatory, forward galley with microwave and ice drawer, and forward closet with 24 ft³ storage complete the cabin package;
• Ogive winglet - the aerodynamic innovation unique to the Learjet 60; reduces drag at wing-winglet junction. The Learjet 60 introduced the ogive winglet - a smoothed trailing-edge profile that specifically addresses the pressure interference at the wing-winglet junction. Wikipedia confirmed "the ogive winglet's smoothing of pressure spikes between the wing and winglet results in significantly lower drag and improved efficiency." ChooseMyPlane confirmed the Learjet 60 is "the last of the legacy Learjets" to use a variation of the Bill Lear-designed wing "adapted originally from Swiss military aircraft" - connecting the Model 60 directly to the design lineage of the original Learjet 23 and the Swiss fighter that inspired it. The ogive winglet addresses the specific limitation of the earlier Longhorn wing where winglet-to-wing pressure interference largely negated the winglet's drag reduction benefit;
• Learjet 60XR (2007-2013): Collins Pro Line 21 avionics; three-rotor disc brakes; five floor plans; LED; improved insulation. Elliott Jets confirmed the 60XR's primary upgrade is the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite with four 8x10-inch displays, upgraded AHRS and FMS, electronic charts and enhanced MFD - replacing the Pro Line 4 of the standard 60. Three-rotor steel disc brakes (rated for 450-600 landings) replaced the under-specification brakes of the original 60 that Wikipedia cited as contributing to the 60's high incident/accident rate during landing. The 60XR cabin introduces five unique floor plans, LED lighting, better insulation reducing door-area noise, a relocated galley with 6.5 more inches of workspace and 59 ft³ total baggage capacity. For charter clients, confirming 60XR specification before booking provides the most current avionics and braking standard;
• 2,405 nm NBAA IFR range; Newfoundland to British Isles transatlantic; 318 LJ60 + 114 LJ60XR built; military fleet including Colombian Air Force and Malaysian Air Force. Wikipedia confirmed 2,405 nm range with four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves - sufficient for Newfoundland to the British Isles transatlantic as confirmed by the original aircraft description. Military operators include the Argentine Air Force, Colombian Air Force, Malaysian Air Force, Mexican Navy and US FAA flight check operations. Elliott Jets documented 114 Learjet 60XRs in operation as of 2013; Wikipedia confirmed 112 Model 60XRs in service in September 2018. The combined LJ60 and LJ60XR fleet of over 400 aircraft represents the Learjet 60's two-decade commercial success as the brand's flagship midsize offering.

Charter cost - Learjet 60 prices from UK airports

Hourly rates run from approximately £2,200 to £2,800 - in the midsize category, above the Learjet 55 and broadly comparable to the Hawker 800XP, reflecting the 60's PW305A FADEC engines, 2,405 nm range, 18-minute climb to FL410 and the widest Learjet cabin available. The Learjet 60XR commands approximately 10 to 15% above the base 60 rate for the Pro Line 21 avionics and upgraded brakes.

Indicative one-way prices from UK airports:

• London to Edinburgh - from £2,640 (7 passengers, approximately 50 minutes);
• London to Paris - from £2,750 (7 passengers, approximately 50 minutes);
• London to Geneva - from £3,740 (7 passengers, approximately 1 hour 10 minutes);
• London to Nice - from £4,620 (7 passengers, approximately 1 hour 35 minutes);
• London to Istanbul - from £11,000 (7 passengers, non-stop, approximately 3 hours 30 minutes);
• Edinburgh to Marrakech - from £11,000 (7 passengers, non-stop, approximately 3 hours 45 minutes);
• London to Dublin - from £2,640 (7 passengers, approximately 55 minutes).

Empty Leg flights appear on repositioning routes. See our Empty Legs page for current availability.

Ideal routes for the Learjet 60

Best matched to short, medium and longer-range European missions where the widest Learjet cabin, PW305A FADEC engines and 2,405 nm range serve groups of 5 to 8:

• Short European day trips (50 to 100 minutes) where the widest Learjet cabin and fastest climb distinguish the 60. Paris, Geneva, Amsterdam, Nice and Brussels are all within 50 to 100 minutes. The FL410 in 18 minutes gives the Learjet 60 a climb performance advantage over all other Learjet models on short sectors - reaching efficient cruise altitude before half the sector is flown. The 1.81 m cabin width provides the most generous Learjet interior for groups of 5 to 7 on short sectors;
• Medium European sectors (1.5 to 3.5 hours) to Istanbul, Athens, Cairo and North Africa within 2,405 nm. London to Istanbul (approximately 1,550 nm), Edinburgh to Athens (approximately 1,650 nm), London to Cairo (approximately 2,200 nm at lighter loads) and London to Marrakech (approximately 1,400 nm) are all within NBAA IFR range. The 51,000 ft ceiling provides comprehensive weather avoidance on these longer sectors. The forward galley with microwave, ice drawer and closet, plus the enclosed aft lavatory, provide complete midsize cabin facilities for 3 to 4-hour sectors;
• Transatlantic positioning - Newfoundland to British Isles within 2,405 nm range. The original description confirmed the Learjet 60 "can cross the Atlantic Ocean from Newfoundland to the British Isles." This transatlantic capability - not available from the Learjet 55 - results directly from the PW305A engines' greater thrust and fuel efficiency at altitude. At lighter loads with favourable winds, the Learjet 60 completes transatlantic sectors that no previous Learjet could attempt;
• Groups of 7 to 8 where the widest and longest Learjet cabin matters more than the most modern avionics. For charter groups of 7 to 8 who value cabin space over avionics currency, the Learjet 60 provides the widest and longest Learjet cabin available at midsize rates. Five executive chairs plus the two-seat divan accommodates 7 comfortably; an eighth fits in the belted lavatory seat. The stand-up headroom at 1.74 m and 1.81 m width create the most spacious Learjet interior available for large-group corporate travel;
• Learjet 60XR-specific operations where Pro Line 21 avionics and improved brakes are required. For charter clients who specifically require Collins Pro Line 21 avionics (electronic charts, enhanced MFD, modern FMS) or the three-rotor steel disc brakes of the 60XR, confirm the XR specification before booking. The 60XR's improved braking addresses the landing brake limitation that Wikipedia cited as a factor in the original 60's incident history. For departures and arrivals at short European runways where braking performance margins matter, the 60XR is the preferred specification.

Cabin and in-flight experience

The Learjet 60 cabin measures 5.39 m (17.7 ft) long, 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in) wide and 1.74 m (5 ft 7 in) high - the widest and longest cabin in the Learjet family. The standard configuration includes five executive slide/swivel reclining chairs plus a two-seat side-facing divan opposite the entry door, for seven standard passengers. Fold-out hideaway worktables are at all positions. A forward galley provides a microwave, ice drawer and glassware storage. A forward closet with 24 ft³ storage is standard. The enclosed aft lavatory provides a full private facility. Internal baggage of approximately 48 ft³ is located near the restroom; the 60XR increases total baggage to 59 ft³. ChooseMyPlane confirmed the "trenched center aisle" provides 5.7 ft of headroom - standing comfort throughout the cabin.

The Learjet 60 cockpit carries Collins Pro Line 4 (four-tube EFIS); the 60XR upgrades to Collins Pro Line 21 with four 8x10-inch displays, upgraded AHRS, enhanced FMS and electronic charts. Two Pratt and Whitney Canada PW305A engines with FADEC at 4,600 lbf each. 6,000-hour TBO; 204 gph fuel burn. Delta Fins (two) visible on the lower rear fuselage. Ogive winglets at wingtips.

• Cabin. 5.39 m x 1.81 m x 1.74 m; stand-up; widest and longest Learjet cabin;
• Layout. 5 executive swivel chairs + 2-seat divan = 7 standard; 8 maximum;
• Galley. Forward; microwave; ice drawer; glassware; forward closet 24 ft³;
• Lavatory. Enclosed aft; full facility;
• Baggage. ~48 ft³ (LJ60); 59 ft³ (LJ60XR);
• Avionics (LJ60). Collins Pro Line 4 (4-tube EFIS);
• Avionics (LJ60XR). Collins Pro Line 21 (4x 8x10-inch; upgraded AHRS; FMS; electronic charts);
• Engines. 2 x PW305A (4,600 lbf each; FADEC; 6,000-hr TBO; 204 gph);
• Brakes (LJ60XR). 3-rotor steel disc (450-600 landings; upgraded from original 60).

Technical specifications

Learjet 60 vs similar aircraft

• Learjet 60 vs Learjet 55. The Learjet 55 is the direct predecessor: same stand-up cabin, same Longhorn winglet wing, but shorter (5.09 m vs 5.39 m cabin), narrower (1.80 m vs 1.81 m) and powered by TFE731-3A-2B at 3,700 lbf vs PW305A at 4,600 lbf. The Learjet 60 provides 24% more thrust, FADEC engine management, FL410 in 18 minutes (vs the 55's slower climb), 2,405 nm range (vs 55's 2,040 nm) and Collins Pro Line 4 glass cockpit replacing the 55's analogue or early EFIS instruments. Charter rates for the 60 run approximately 20 to 25% above the 55. For range beyond 2,040 nm or climb performance on congested European sectors, the 60 is the preferable choice;
• Learjet 60 vs Hawker 800XP. The Hawker 800XP has a longer cabin (5.59 m vs 5.39 m), Collins Pro Line 21 avionics, 2,540 nm range and 447 kt cruise. Charter rates are broadly comparable. The Learjet 60 counters with FL410 in 18 minutes (much faster climb), 51,000 ft ceiling (vs Hawker 800XP's 41,000 ft), PW305A FADEC engines and the 1.81 m cabin width (comparable to Hawker 800XP's 1.83 m). For climb and ceiling the Learjet 60 is superior; for cabin length and modern avionics (on the 800XP) the Hawker is the alternative;
• Learjet 60 vs Learjet 45XR. The Learjet 45XR is the newer clean-sheet design with a similar cabin length (6.02 m) but narrower (1.55 m vs 1.81 m), 465 kt cruise (vs 436 kt), 51,000 ft ceiling and APU standard. Charter rates are broadly comparable to slightly lower. The Learjet 60 counters with 2,405 nm range (more than 45XR's 1,830 nm), the 1.81 m cabin width (wider than 45XR's 1.55 m) and PW305A engines' 18-minute climb to FL410. For range and cabin width the 60 is preferable; for more modern avionics and APU the 45XR is the alternative.

Frequently asked questions - Learjet 60 charter

How much does it cost to charter a Learjet 60?
Charter rates run from approximately £2,200 to £2,800 per flight hour. London to Geneva costs from £3,740 for 7 passengers. London to Edinburgh costs from £2,640. London to Istanbul costs from £11,000 non-stop. All quotes from Private Jets UK are fully itemised with no hidden charges.

What is the difference between the Learjet 60 and Learjet 60XR?
The Learjet 60XR (2007-2013) upgrades the cockpit from Collins Pro Line 4 to Collins Pro Line 21 with four 8x10-inch displays, upgraded AHRS, enhanced FMS and electronic charts. Three-rotor steel disc brakes replace the original 60's under-specification braking system. The 60XR introduces five cabin floor plans, LED lighting, improved insulation reducing door-area noise, a relocated galley with 6.5 more inches of workspace, and increases total baggage to 59 ft³. Both variants use the same PW305A engines. Confirm 60XR specification before booking if Pro Line 21 avionics or improved braking are priorities.

How does the Learjet 60 compare to the Learjet 55?
The Learjet 60 extends the 55's fuselage by 43 inches, adds PW305A engines at 4,600 lbf each (vs 55's 3,700 lbf TFE731), provides FADEC engine control, climbs to FL410 in 18 minutes and offers 2,405 nm NBAA IFR range (vs 55's 2,040 nm). The cabin is wider (1.81 m vs 1.80 m) and longer (5.39 m vs 5.09 m). The cockpit moves from the 55's analogue or early EFIS to Collins Pro Line 4 glass cockpit. The Learjet 60 is the complete upgrade over the 55 in every performance and avionics dimension.

What is the ogive winglet on the Learjet 60?
The ogive winglet is a Learjet 60 aerodynamic innovation - a smoothed trailing-edge profile at the junction between the wing and winglet. Wikipedia confirmed the design "smooths pressure spikes between the wing and winglet, resulting in significantly lower drag and improved efficiency." On the earlier Learjet 55's Longhorn wing, pressure interference at the wing-winglet junction largely cancelled out the winglet's drag reduction benefit. The ogive design on the Model 60 resolved this limitation.

Can the Learjet 60 cross the Atlantic?
With a fuel stop. The 2,405 nm range enables Newfoundland to the British Isles non-stop - the narrowest Atlantic crossing. A direct London to New York flight (approximately 3,400 nm) requires a fuel stop, typically in Reykjavik, the Azores or Newfoundland. The Learjet 60 is not a transatlantic-direct aircraft at full passenger loads from European airports.