Bombardier Challenger 300 vs Learjet 45
The Learjet 45 (light) and Bombardier Challenger 350/300 (super-mid) are different-class aircraft — same parent company until 2022, but different missions: the 45 is a light jet for ~6 passengers; the Challenger is the super-midsize cabin-class workhorse.
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Bombardier Challenger 300 | Learjet 45 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $4,150,000 – $14,295,000 | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 |
| Category | Super-Midsize Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 450 kts (833 km/h) | 438 kts (811 km/h) |
| Range | 3,100 nm (5,741 km) | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 38,850 lbs (17,622 kg) | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) |
| Useful Load | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 1,430.0 gal (5413 L) | 575.0 gal (2176 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 260.0 GPH (984 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $700,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $500,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $3,500 | $2,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBombardier Challenger 300
Fuel$1,430/hr
Variable$3,500/hr
Annual Fixed$500,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$1,200,000/yr
Learjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Bombardier Challenger 300 or Learjet 45?
Bottom line: Choose the Challenger 300/350 when you need super-midsize cabin, flat floor and ~3,200 nm range — at materially higher cost. Choose the Learjet 45 for light-jet economics and ramp presence when the smaller cabin is acceptable.
Pick the Challenger 300 if…
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- Faster cruise — 450 kts vs 438 kts.
- Longer range — 3100 nm vs 2120 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2004 vs 1997.
Pick the 45 if…
- Budget matters — from $1,495,000 vs $4,150,000, you save ~$2,655,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2500/hr vs $3500/hr.
- More inventory — 69 listings vs 48.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bombardier Challenger 300 or Learjet 45?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Challenger 300 cruises at 450 kts with 3,100 nm range.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bombardier Challenger 300 and Learjet 45?
Challenger 300 engine: Honeywell HTF7000.
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Seats: 10 vs 9.
Cruise: 450 vs 438 kts.
Range: 3100 vs 2120 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Challenger 300: about $3500/hr variable cost.
45: about $2500/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Challenger 300: 10 seats / 9,500 lb useful load.
45: 9 seats / 5,200 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Challenger 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$700,000.
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data