Aircraft
Foundation Formed To Restore First-delivered Learjet
The full restoration of Lear Jet 23-003 will shine well-deserved light on the first purpose-built business jet.
Lear serial number 23-003, the first Learjet ever delivered parked on ramp at Bartow Executive Airport in Florida
The first Learjet ever delivered, serial number 23-003, has been deteriorating on a ramp at Bartow Executive Airport in Florida and will soon be moved to Wichita for a full restoration. (Photo: Classic Lear Jet Foundation)

A group of enthusiasts has formed the Classic Lear Jet Foundation to restore Lear 23-003—the third one built and first delivered. The group plans to move the jet from where it has been deteriorating on a ramp at Bartow Executive Airport in Florida to Wichita for a full restoration. Plans call for flying S/N 003 as a “living flight history program,” according to the foundation.

Discussions began a year ago about the possibility of acquiring and restoring 23-003, and the first meeting of the foundation took place in July. The foundation obtained non-profit status in September.

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