Aircraft
Work Proceeds on First Production Learjet Restoration
Nonprofit looks to bring iconic twinjet back to flight status
fuselage of Learjet 23-003 following paint stripping
The fuselage of Learjet 23-003, the first production Lear, is returned to its restoration hangar in Wichita following paint stripping. The aircraft will now undergo non-destructive inspection to help its nonprofit owners determine its structural condition. © Classic Lear Jet Foundation

Classic Lear Jet Foundation, the nonprofit group working to return the first production Lear Jet to flight status, is appearing this week at NBAA-BACE at the booth of corporate sponsor Spectro Jet-Care. Notably, they are bringing along a special guest today—legendary Learjet pilot Clay Lacy will be at the booth from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for a meet-and-greet.

In addition to Lacy’s impressive airline resume and other record-setting aviation achievements, he has vast experience with the early Learjets. In 1964, he flew one of the first Learjet 23s into California’s Van Nuys Airport (KVNY), making it the first corporate jet based there.