LEARJET 23: SPEARHEADING THE BIZJET REVOLUTION

The Learjet 23's sleek, futuristic design, all-metal construction and superlative performance practically screamed "fighter jet". Just like a fighter it could carry out a range of aerobatic manoeuvres.

- JOSEPH NORONHA

THE LEARJET 23 WAS A HIGH-SPEED, TWIN-ENGINE BUSINESS jet introduced in service in the United States in 1964. It was the first model produced by the Lear Jet Corporation and transported many of the rich and famous to their glamorous engagements. It triggered a revolution in the aviation world, creating a new market for fast and efficient small business aircraft. In a short space of time “Learjet” became a synonym for any private jet of any brand.

The Learjet 23 came about thanks to William “Bill” Powell Lear (1902 – 1978), an American inventor and entrepreneur. Among the many innovations to his credit were practical home radio, the aerial radio direction finder, 8-track stereo, various car radios, and the first jet autopilot. Although Lear was not an aeronautical engineer he had been flying since he was 30. He was almost 60 – an age when many are ready to retire – when he realised the market potential for small bizjets, despite lacklustre sales by pioneers like the Lockheed Jetstar.