Learjet 45 vs Learjet 31
The Learjet 31 (classic light, Garrett TFE731) and Learjet 45 (modern clean-sheet light) are predecessor-era and modern light Learjets — the 31 is the sharp-handling 1990s delta-fin jet; the 45 is the larger, more comfortable 1998+ design with a flat-floor cabin and modern avionics.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Learjet 31 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 | $499,000 – $1,438,015 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 445 kts (824 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 1,488 nm (2,756 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 17,000 lbs (7,711 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | 413.0 gal (1563 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 145.0 GPH (549 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $300,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $300,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $2,200 |
| 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
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 45 or Learjet 31?
Bottom line: Choose the Learjet 45 for the larger flat-floor cabin, modern systems and the youngest light-Learjet airframes. Choose the Learjet 31 for the lowest entry into Learjet ownership and sharp handling, accepting the smaller cabin and older systems.
Pick the 45 if…
- More seats — 9 vs 8.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1488 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1997 vs 1988.
- More inventory — 59 listings vs 21.
Pick the 31 if…
- Budget matters — from $499,000 vs $1,495,000, you save ~$996,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $2500/hr.
- Faster cruise — 445 kts vs 438 kts.
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 Learjet 31?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 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 45 and Learjet 31?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
31 engine: Garrett TFE731-2.
Seats: 9 vs 8.
Cruise: 438 vs 445 kts.
Range: 2120 vs 1488 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
45: about $2500/hr variable cost.
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?
45: 9 seats / 5,200 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?
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
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