Bombardier To End Production of the Iconic Learjet

Bombardier Jets has announced production of the iconic Learjet will end after nearly 60 years of production and 3000 new builds.

Inspired by Swiss fighter aircraft and first made famous in the 60’s by celebrities like Frank Sinatra, the Learjet’s days will be coming to a close as Bombardier axes the smaller jet to allow the company to focus on the more larger and profitable Challenger and Global aircraft families.

From its first flight on 7th October 1963, the Learjet had been a favorite choice for private and business aviation, with members of the original Rat Pack frequently using the Learjet as a mode of transport to jet between glamorous locations.

Unfortunately for Learjet, as newer technologies developed and competition from brands like Embraer and Cessna increased, Learjet could not keep pace with the demand for faster flights and more cabin space.

Bombardier spokesman Mark Masluch noted, “Less equipped aircraft at smaller price points drove demand,” while a recent statement from Bombardier referenced a lack of profitability and the need for a cost-cutting plan as reason for ending of production and the subsequent reduction of its workforce by 1,600 positions.

“With more than 3,000 aircraft delivered since its entry-into-service in 1963, the iconic Learjet aircraft has had a remarkable and lasting impact on business aviation”, shared Eric Martel, Bombardier Jets President and CEO. “However, given the increasingly challenging market dynamics, we have made this difficult decision to end Learjet production.”

Now, after nearly 60 years, Bombardier will be calling it a day on the Learjet in Q4 later this year, but the company has revealed the Learjet headquarters in Wichita, Kansas will remain operational and be transformed into a support center for maintenance and upgrades of existing Learjet models.