Learjet 35
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 150; Flight Crew Total 8000; Flight Crew Type 5000
ATC Issue All Types; Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Aircraft
While enroute; we experienced a mechanical [issue] in regards to cabin not being able to maintain certified pressure on the vessel. We ended up setting up long range cruise to save fuel due to the inability to climb into the 40's flight levels. About 2 hours out from [destination] I advised ATC of a possible minimum fuel situation at our destination and requested to stay up as high as possible as long as possible with the most direct route as possible. The controller said no problem and forwarded the request on to all agencies for the remainder of the flight. There was no other issues or concerns to safely complete the flight to my planned landing destination. Upon contacting the final controller just prior to Tower I was advised to plan to hold. I replied I am unable to hold due to the minimum fuel situation. The controller said he will be unable to get me into [destination]. At that point I [said it's] a fuel emergency. The controller again advised me he will be unable to get me into [destination] and asked me what I want to do. I advised I am filed for [destination] and that is where I would like to go. The controller said he will be unable. I quickly advised my passenger of the situation while my copilot received a call back from approach stating they will get us into [destination]. I was vectored directly to [destination] and landed safely with no further event. Landing fuel was 50 minutes remaining.
LR35 Captain reported a low fuel situation related to a mechanical issue that limited cruise altitude.