Avro RJ85

The British Aerospace Avro RJ85 represents the mature and refined evolution of the famous BAe 146, an aircraft that has revolutionized regional transport since the 1980s. Known affectionately as the "Whisperjet" for its remarkable silence, the BAe 146 laid the foundations for a new generation of high-performance regional aircraft.

The Avro RJ series, launched in the early 1990s, was born from the need to modernize the original design with more efficient engines, updated avionics and a greater focus on passenger comfort. The first flight of the Avro RJ85 occurred in 1992, marking the beginning of an era for this extraordinary regional jet.

The RJ85 was designed to excel in a demanding market segment: urban airports with severe noise restrictions and short runways, but without sacrificing passenger capacity or operational efficiency. Its unique configuration made it ideal for connecting metropolitan centers with regional routes.

The Avro RJ85 retained the iconic high wing and T-tail configuration, badges that were not only aesthetic but functional for its exceptional STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) capabilities. This architecture allowed agile operations even on short and less equipped runways.

The technological heart of the RJ85 lay in its four turbofan engines, initially the Lycoming ALF 502R and later the Rolls-Royce LF 507. This four-engine configuration offered unsurpassed redundancy, reliability and the power needed for steep launches and precise landings, while always maintaining a surprisingly low noise footprint.

The cabin was carefully redesigned to maximize passenger comfort in a 2+3 or 3+3 seat layout, offering more personal space than many direct competitors. Its versatility made it suitable for different configurations, from regional passenger transport to VIP charter.

Onboard Specifications

• ◆Four Lycoming ALF 502R or Rolls-Royce LF 507 turbofan engines, ensuring excellent redundancy and thrust for STOL operations.
• ◆Advanced avionics with EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System), which has improved pilot situational awareness and operational efficiency.
• ◆Tail-mounted clam-shell airbrakes, unique in their effectiveness for steep and short landings, essential for urban airports.

The Avro RJ85 has enjoyed a successful operational career, becoming a mainstay for numerous regional airlines and network carriers in Europe and around the world. Its ability to operate at difficult airports, such as London City Airport, has made it indispensable for many high-density routes.

Prominent carriers such as Lufthansa CityLine, Swiss, SAS and Malmö Aviation have made extensive use of RJ85, appreciating its reliability and flexibility. This aircraft has proven its robustness and versatility on a wide range of routes, from Scandinavian routes to intra-European connections.

In addition to passenger transport, the RJ85 has also been employed in special configurations, including VIP charters and cargo operations. Its adaptability has made it a valuable asset in many scenarios, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable workhorse.

The Avro RJ85 was not just an aircraft, but a symbol of efficiency and adaptability in regional aviation. Loved by pilots for its maneuverability and exceptional flight performance, and appreciated by passengers for its comfort and silence, it has left an indelible mark.

It epitomized the best of British aeronautical engineering, demonstrating that innovative design could meet the challenges of modern air transport. Its ability to operate in complex environments has opened up new opportunities for many airlines' networks, acting as an air bridge between cities.

Although production has ceased and many examples have been retired or converted, the legacy of the Avro RJ85 endures. It remains a striking example of how an aircraft, designed for a specific niche, can profoundly influence the aviation landscape, deserving a place of honor in aeronautical history.