Learjet 35 vs Learjet 31
The Learjet 35 and Learjet 31 are the classic Garrett-powered light Learjets — the 35 (1974-1994) is the long-range tip-tank transcontinental light jet (~2,000+ nm); the 31 (1990-2003) is the later, sharper-handling development with the delta-fin and modern-era systems but shorter range.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 35 | Learjet 31 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $525,000 – $1,100,000 | $499,000 – $1,438,015 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Cruise Speed | 425 kts (787 km/h) | 445 kts (824 km/h) |
| Range | 2,050 nm (3,797 km) | 1,488 nm (2,756 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) | 17,000 lbs (7,711 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,600 lbs (2,087 kg) | 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 530.0 gal (2006 L) | 413.0 gal (1563 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 150.0 GPH (568 L/h) | 145.0 GPH (549 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 4,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $300,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $300,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 35
Fuel$825/hr
Learjet 31
Fuel$798/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$300,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$740,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 35 or Learjet 31?
Bottom line: Choose the Learjet 35 for the longest legs and the proven, widely-supported classic Learjet — still a freight/medevac workhorse. Choose the Learjet 31 for crisper handling and newer systems on shorter missions, accepting its more limited range and smaller fleet.
Pick the 35 if…
- Longer range — 2050 nm vs 1488 nm.
Pick the 31 if…
- Budget matters — from $499,000 vs $525,000, you save ~$26,000.
- Faster cruise — 445 kts vs 425 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1988 vs 1974.
- More inventory — 21 listings vs 11.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Learjet 35 or Learjet 31?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 35 cruises at 425 kts with 2,050 nm range.
The 31 cruises at 445 kts with 1,488 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 Learjet 35 and Learjet 31?
35 engine: Garrett TFE731-2-2A.
31 engine: Garrett TFE731-2.
Cruise: 425 vs 445 kts.
Range: 2050 vs 1488 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
31: about $2200/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?
35: 8 seats / 4,600 lb useful load.
31: 8 seats / 3,600 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?
31: 4,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$300,000.
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