The much delayed Lear 85 from Bombardier made its first flight today in Wichita. Â First flight was originally anticipated about one year ago, but the program was delayed by software issues, much like the CSeries, which has several aircraft currently in flight testing. Â Bombardier has not yet released an update as to when the aircraft is scheduled for entry into service.
This is a significant milestone for the program, which hopefully can have a smooth test period and entry into service, after a troubled initial development phase. The aircraft competes with the Gulfstream G150, Cessna Citation Sovereign, Embraer Legacy 500. The Lear 85 fits between the mid-size and super mid-size segment of the market. Major fractional operator FlexJet has firm orders for 60 of Lear 85s.
Great light aircraft