Learjet 60 vs Learjet 55
The Learjet 55 (1981-1987) and the Learjet 60 (1993-2012) are predecessor and successor midsize Learjets — the 55 was the first stand-up Learjet; the 60 modernised it with Pratt & Whitney PW305 engines and refined systems.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 60 | Learjet 55 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $2,275,000 – $5,500,000 | $415,000 – $1,095,000 |
| Category | Midsize Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 430 kts (796 km/h) |
| Range | 2,405 nm (4,454 km) | 1,850 nm (3,426 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 23,500 lbs (10,660 kg) | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,800 lbs (2,631 kg) | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 635.0 gal (2403 L) | 530.0 gal (2006 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) | 165.0 GPH (625 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $450,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $380,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,800 | $2,600 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 60
Fuel$1,018/hr
Variable$2,800/hr
Annual Fixed$380,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$940,000/yr
Learjet 55
Fuel$908/hr
Variable$2,600/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$870,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 60 or Learjet 55?
Bottom line: Choose the 60 for a modern midsize Learjet with current support; choose the 55 only for the cheapest entry into a stand-up Learjet, with realistic budgets for engine work, mandate upgrades and thin parts support.
Pick the 60 if…
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 430 kts.
- Longer range — 2405 nm vs 1850 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1993 vs 1981.
- More inventory — 48 listings vs 12.
Pick the 55 if…
- Budget matters — from $415,000 vs $2,275,000, you save ~$1,860,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2600/hr vs $2800/hr.
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 60 or Learjet 55?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 60 cruises at 438 kts with 2,405 nm range.
The 55 cruises at 430 kts with 1,850 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Learjet 55: from $895,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Learjet 60 and Learjet 55?
60 engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305.
55 engine: Garrett TFE731-3A-2B.
Cruise: 438 vs 430 kts.
Range: 2405 vs 1850 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
60: about $2800/hr variable cost.
55: about $2600/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?
60: 10 seats / 5,800 lb useful load.
55: 10 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?
60: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$450,000.
55: 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