Classic Lear Jet Foundation—the nonprofit group that aims to bring the first production Lear Jet back to flight status—announced that it has begun the restoration process on its Lear 23. The Wichita-based organization acquired serial number 23-003 in August after a pair of industry veterans stepped up to donate the budget shortfall for its purchase from a private owner.
Bombardier donated space to house the restoration work at Building 14, the former Learjet delivery facility on its Wichita campus, and the aircraft has been there for a year now after being transported by a flatbed truck from Florida.
The process on the first workday included the ceremonial opening of the first panel—the pilot’s nose avionics door—after which a team of volunteers carefully removed avionics, gyros, oxygen and air bottles, and other components. According to the work staff—who also found long-vacant wasp nests—the bottles were still pressurized, even though the aircraft had not been serviced for nearly 25 years.
Every part was photographed and logged by name, model, and serial number before being placed in secure storage. Each will be inspected and evaluated as to its condition and need for possible restoration or replacement.
Before 23-003’s return to Wichita, its two GE CJ610-1 engines were removed and sent, along with their maintenance records, to Michigan where they will eventually be refurbished by International Turbine Industries.