Learjet 45 vs Bombardier Challenger 300
The Learjet 45 (light) and Challenger 300 (super-midsize) are different-class Bombardier-era jets — the 45 is a swept-wing light jet; the 300 is a super-mid workhorse.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Bombardier Challenger 300 |
|---|---|---|
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|
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| Price Range | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 | $4,150,000 – $14,295,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Super-Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 450 kts (833 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 3,100 nm (5,741 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 38,850 lbs (17,622 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | 1,430.0 gal (5413 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 260.0 GPH (984 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $700,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $500,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $3,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/yr
Bombardier Challenger 300
Fuel$1,430/hr
Variable$3,500/hr
Annual Fixed$500,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$1,200,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 45 or Bombardier Challenger 300?
Bottom line: Choose the Learjet 45 for light-jet economics and ramp presence. Step up to the Challenger 300 when you need the super-mid cabin, ~3,200 nm range and modern systems. ================================================================ # GLOBAL × COMPETITORS (6) ================================================================
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 — 60 listings vs 41.
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.
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 45 or Bombardier Challenger 300?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 nm range.
The Challenger 300 cruises at 450 kts with 3,100 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 45 and Bombardier Challenger 300?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Challenger 300 engine: Honeywell HTF7000.
Seats: 9 vs 10.
Cruise: 438 vs 450 kts.
Range: 2120 vs 3100 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
45: about $2500/hr variable cost.
Challenger 300: about $3500/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?
45: 9 seats / 5,200 lb useful load.
Challenger 300: 10 seats / 9,500 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?
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Challenger 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$700,000.
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