IAI 1124 Westwind

The IAI 1124 Westwind traces its origins to the Aero Commander Jet Commander, a twin‑engine business jet unveiled in the mid‑1960s. Aero Commander, a division of Rockwell International, introduced the Model 1124 in 1965 as one of the first small, pressurized jets aimed at corporate operators seeking speed without the operating costs of larger aircraft. In 1974 the design was acquired by Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI), which refined the airframe, upgraded the Garrett TFE731‑3 engines and marketed the aircraft as the Westwind. Production continued under IAI until 1993, with a total of roughly 280 airframes built.

Key features of the Westwind include a low‑wing, all‑metal structure, twin turbofan propulsion delivering a cruise speed near 435 kt, and a range of about 2,000 nm with full fuel. Its pressurized cabin accommodates eight passengers seated in a comfortable layout, while modern avionics packages introduced in later variants provide all‑flight weather radar, autopilot and VHF‑UHF communications suited for both civilian and military missions. The aircraft’s relatively short take‑off and landing distances enable operation from regional airports and remote airfields.

The Westwind’s significance lies in establishing a viable market segment for lightweight, high‑performance jets. It bridged the gap between piston‑powered business twins and larger corporate jets, influencing later designs such as the Cessna Citation series and proving adaptable for roles ranging from corporate transport to surveillance, training and light‑military duties.