As the launch customer for the new Learjet 40XR, Bombardier Flexjet announced the induction of the first three of the new type into the fractional provider’s fleet. Flexjet will take delivery of four more Learjet 40XRs by year-end. In the accompanying photo, Flexjet chief pilot Rick Handschurch welcomes the arrival of the first 40XR.

The 40XR is a new version of the Learjet 40, which entered service two years ago. According to Bombardier, the 40XR features longer range, better hot-and-high performance, quicker climb times and shorter flight times than its predecessor. The twinjet’s upgraded Honeywell TFE731-20BR turbofans are primarily responsible for the performance gains.