Learjet 55

The Learjet 55, called the Longhorn, is an American business jet built by Learjet and the only aircraft actually built of a planned 50 series that was to include the Learjet 54, 55 and 56. The series was announced at the 1977 Paris Air Show with larger cabins than existing Learjets. The 55 is a low-wing cantilever monoplane with NASA-developed winglets and a T-tail, powered by two Garrett TFE731 turbofans mounted on either side of the rear fuselage, with an enclosed cabin for up to ten passengers and two crew. Construction began in April 1978, the first flight was on 19 April 1979 and the first production aircraft were produced starting 18 March 1981. In total 147 Learjet 55 aircraft were delivered. Variants include the 55B with a glass cockpit, the 55C with delta fins, extended-range and long-range versions of the 55C, and the Brazilian Air Force VU-55 VIP transport.