Bombardier's Belfast facility to manufacture Learjet 85 wing structures
Bombardier Aerospace, Belfast (above) will produce the primary wing structures using its Resin Transfer Infusion (RTI) process, currently being developed for the CSeries aircraft’s advanced composite wings in Belfast. Expanding this technology to the new Learjet 85 aircraft programme will also provide an opportunity to further develop key skills and core competencies in the design and manufacture of advanced composite wings.
“This new work package will enable us to expand our unique RTI advanced composite process for aircraft wings, as well as build on our abilities in the composites field,” said Michael Ryan, VP and general manager, Bombardier Aerospace, Belfast. “Given the success we have had to date with our CSeries aircraft demonstrator wing using the RTI technology, we are confident that this process can be further developed, adapted and applied to our Learjet 85 business jet.”
Production of the wing skins and spars for the Learjet 85 aircraft (above) will take place in the new manufacturing and assembly facility that is currently being constructed in Belfast, where the CSeries aircraft wings will also be manufactured. The final assembly of the wings for the new Learjet 85 will take place at Bombardier’s production plant in Querétaro, Mexico.
“Developing an aircraft with an extensive use of composite technology requires expertise from various key players in the industry,” said Ralph Acs, vice president, Learjet 85, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Our Belfast facility is a centre of excellence for advanced composite technology giving us access to the latest available processes while leveraging our inhouse capabilities in order to develop an aircraft that offers optimal performance, reliability and comfort.”
Launched on October 30, 2007, the Learjet 85 aircraft will be the first Bombardier Aerospace jet with both fuselage and wing built primarily from carbon composites designed for type certification under US Federal Aviation Administration FAR Part 25.
