Learjet
Learjet 23
The Learjet 23, introduced in 1963, was the first model produced by the American manufacturer Learjet and quickly became an icon of business aviation. Developed from the Swiss-designed Swissair P‑16 military trainer, Bill Lear adapted the sleek, low‑wing, twin‑engine design for civilian use, achieving a first flight on October 7, 1963 and certification in 1966. Powered by two Garrett TFE731 turbofan engines, the 23 could cruise at 470 knots (860 km/h) and reach a ceiling of 45,000 feet, while carrying up to eight passengers in a compact, pressurized cabin. Its high‑speed performance, short runway requirements, and elegant silhouette set new standards for corporate jet travel, proving that jet propulsion was viable for small‑scale operations. Over 400 units were built before production ended in 1972, and the aircraft helped establish the Learjet brand as a benchmark for speed, efficiency, and luxury. The 23’s success spurred a family of follow‑on models such as the 24, 25, and 28, influencing the design philosophy of subsequent light business jets and cementing its place in aviation history as the catalyst that popularized private jet travel worldwide.
Classification
Performance
- Service Ceiling
- 13715 metre
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 101
- First Flight
- 1963
- Service Entry
- 1963