Learjet Model 45 Steep Approach Certification

Flight certification for steep approach and landing at the increasingly popular London City Airport (LCY) offers commercial advantages for a business aircraft. The combined requirements of demonstrating 7.5° approach angle with a sink rate of less than 3 feet per second at touch down and the short runway present a special challenge to the certification team. Learjet's efforts to certify the M45 to the JAA NPA25-267 are described. It is shown that the M45 can meet the stringent requirements of the NPA with simple changes in the operational procedures, no aerodynamic modification, and increased level of safety compared to the more common approach seen with other business jets of landing with spoilers deployed. Suggestions on harmonization of steep approach guidance between the JAA/EASA, FAA, and TCCA are also provided.