Learjet 31 vs Learjet 35

The Learjet 35 and the Learjet 31 are two classic light Learjets — the longer-range 35 and the high-performance 31. The 35 is the proven, long-serving light jet known for range and load; the 31 a hot-rod with delta fins and strong climb. Where each trades now is below.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle

Learjet 31
For sale now
21
Model years available
1990–2002
Learjet 35
For sale now
11
Model years available
1977–1989

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Learjet 31Learjet 35
All events353
Serious00
Fatal122
Fatalities457
% Fatal33%42%
View full Learjet 31 NTSB record →View full Learjet 35 NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Learjet 31 Learjet 35
Learjet 31
View 19 listings →
Median $675,000
 Learjet 35
View 11 listings →
Median $812,500
Price Range $518,200 – $1,368,412 $553,750 – $1,071,250
Category Light Jet Light Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 8 8
Cruise Speed 445 kts (824 km/h) 425 kts (787 km/h)
Range 1,488 nm (2,756 km) 2,050 nm (3,797 km)
Service Ceiling 51,000 ft (15,545 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 17,000 lbs (7,711 kg) 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg)
Useful Load 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg) 4,600 lbs (2,087 kg)
Fuel Capacity 413.0 gal (1563 L) 530.0 gal (2006 L)
Fuel Burn 145.0 GPH (549 L/h) 150.0 GPH (568 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

Estimate

Learjet 31

Fuel$798/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$300,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $740,000/yr

Learjet 35

Fuel$825/hr

Which Should You Buy: Learjet 31 or Learjet 35?

Bottom line: Choose the Learjet 35 for range and capability — a proven, long-serving light jet with good range, load and a deep fleet. Choose the Learjet 31 for performance — a punchy climber with delta-fin stability and strong high-altitude performance, the sportier choice. On safety both are twin-engine light Learjets with engine-out redundancy and proven records; the difference is range versus performance, not safety. Long-serving range, or high-performance climber.

Pick the 31 if…

  • Budget matters — from $518,200 vs $553,750, you save ~$35,550.
  • Faster cruise — 445 kts vs 425 kts.
  • Newer design — production from 1988 vs 1974.
  • More inventory — 19 listings vs 11.

Pick the 35 if…

  • Longer range — 2050 nm vs 1488 nm.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the Learjet 35 and 31?
The Learjet 35 is the longer-range, long-serving light jet; the 31 a higher-performance variant with delta fins and strong climb. They differ in range versus outright performance.
Which has the longer range?
The Learjet 35 — built for more range and load. The 31 trades some range for climb and high-altitude performance.
Which performs better?
The Learjet 31 — its delta fins and design give strong climb and handling. The 35 is the steadier, longer-range workhorse.
Which is better, Learjet 31 or Learjet 35?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 31 cruises at 445 kts with 1,488 nm range. The 35 cruises at 425 kts with 2,050 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 31 and Learjet 35?
31 engine: Garrett TFE731-2. 35 engine: Garrett TFE731-2-2A. Cruise: 445 vs 425 kts. Range: 1488 vs 2050 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?
31: 8 seats / 3,600 lb useful load. 35: 8 seats / 4,600 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 re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data