Bombardier to upgrade Learjets

Bombardier Aerospace is preparing for the eventual recovery in the light business aircraft market by launching two Learjet planes next year that upgrade existing models for the first time in more than a decade.

The Learjet 70 and 75 models will have new technologies such as avionics and more powerful fuel-saving engines.

"This will put us in an advantageous position once the market (recovers) because we will be ready with brand new planes," spokeswoman Danielle Boudreau said Monday from Geneva.

The Montreal-based manufacturer is also introducing a Learjet 85 made of composite materials in 2013.

The Learjet 70 and Learjet 75 have list prices of $11.5 million (U.S.) and $13 million respectively. The planes will be assembled in Wichita, Kan., with wings made in Toronto and the fuselage coming from Belfast.