60 Years of the Learjet 23: The Pioneer of Executive Aviation

The Learjet 23 marked a milestone in commercial aviation 60 years ago when, on October 13, 1964, its first aircraft was delivered to Chemical and Industrial Corporation in Cincinnati, Ohio. This aircraft, known as N200Y and being the third one produced, was groundbreaking as the first jet specifically designed for executive use.

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As reported by Aviacionline, the delivery took place with an inaugural flight from Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport in Wichita to Lunken Airport in Cincinnati, marking the beginning of a new era in private aviation.

Bill Lear, the visionary behind the Learjet, not only designed an advanced aircraft that left a lasting legacy but also revolutionized the way the executive aviation market was conceived. His vision extended to the development of the private air transport market, changing the way business was conducted in the skies, as reported today by Aeroin.

The Learjet 23-003, used by businessman Herbert Hamilton, became a centerpiece of his corporate structure for more than 30 years.

The aircraft was a symbol of innovation, not only because of its engineering but also as part of Hamilton’s business life, where his family played a significant role.

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Patricia Hamilton, Herbert’s daughter, and her brother Jim obtained their pilot licenses, breaking barriers as one of the few groups of young people piloting corporate aircraft at the time.

After many years sitting outdoors and inactive, Learjet 23-003 has found a new chapter in its history thanks to the efforts of the Classic Lear Jet Foundation (CLJF). Founded by current and former employees dedicated to preserving the Lear Jet heritage and the city of Wichita, the foundation acquired the aircraft with the goal of restoring it to its former glory and bringing it back to Wichita.

The restoration is more than a tribute to an iconic aircraft; it is a testament to the lasting impact of Bill Lear, who not only innovated in commercial aviation but also made significant contributions such as the development of high-fidelity audio systems like the Lear Jet Stereo 8.