Learjet

Learjet is a brand of business jets originally developed by Learjet, Inc., founded by William P. Lear in the United States during the 1960s. The name became associated with high-performance, compact jet aircraft used for corporate and charter travel.

The company produced the Learjet 23, which first flew in 1963 and entered service in 1964. The Learjet line expanded through multiple generations, including the 24/25, 28/29, 35/36, 40/45, and the 60-series, along with later variants such as the 60XR and the 70/75 family. The aircraft are known for their twin rear-fuselage engines, straight-wing design, and pressurized cabins intended for efficient travel at higher speeds.

In 1990 Learjet was acquired by Bombardier Aerospace, and the Learjet line continued under the Bombardier Learjet brand within the company’s Business Aircraft division. The program included advances across several models, though some ambitious projects, such as the Learjet 85, were canceled. Over time, production and development of certain older models were reduced as Bombardier reorganized its product portfolio, with focus shifting toward other business aircraft families.

Design and usage: Learjets are typically small to mid-size, all-metal, low-wing jets with rear fuselage-mounted engines and a pressurized cabin. They have been popular with corporate flight departments and private owners for their speed, efficiency, and airport performance, serving regional and cross-country missions.

Current status: The Learjet name remains a recognized part of business aviation, reflecting a lineage of high-performance small jets. Production has varied as Bombardier adjusted its product mix, but the brand persists as a symbol of early jet-era corporate travel.