The Classic Lear Jet Foundation (CLJF) is preparing to enter the next critical stage of its ambitious restoration of Learjet 23-003—the first production Learjet—with structural non-destructive testing (NDT) set to commence in the coming weeks. The 61-year-old airframe, which has undergone extensive disassembly since being moved to Bombardier’s Wichita facility in October, will now be examined for structural integrity as part of the project’s push to return the iconic aircraft to airworthiness.
The restoration initiative, led by a volunteer team of current and retired aerospace professionals—some of whom worked on the original Learjet production line—has already logged over 750 man-hours. In recent months, the team completed a full gutting of the cockpit and cabin, removing all wiring, flight control systems, plumbing, ducting, and fuel bladders. Equipment such as fuel pumps and landing gear has been detached for overhaul.
Dry ice blasting to remove foam insulation from the fuselage interior began last week, and paint stripping from the major airframe assemblies is expected to begin shortly. These steps are essential precursors to NDT procedures, which will assess the aircraft's structural condition without compromising its materials—a crucial requirement for restoring an aircraft of this vintage to flight-ready status.
NDT plays a pivotal role in evaluating the remaining life and safety of legacy airframes, using advanced techniques such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current inspection, and radiographic imaging to detect internal flaws, corrosion, or fatigue damage invisible to the naked eye.
According to CLJF spokesman Rick Rowe, “After that is completed, work to strip paint from all the major assemblies will commence, clearing the way for non-destructive testing.” This marks a significant milestone in the journey to bring the historic jet back into the skies.
In support of the project, Global Jetcare—a Florida-based aeromedical transport provider—recently completed a Polar Circumnavigation of the globe using a Learjet 36A. The flight, carried out by a four-member crew that included Global Jetcare President and CLJF Vice President Bart Gray, served as a fundraiser to help finance the restoration.
As the Learjet 23-003 enters its NDT phase, the project underscores not just a tribute to aviation history, but also the enduring role of advanced inspection technologies in aircraft preservation and safety assurance.
Reference: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2025-05-14/learjet-restoration-project-move-ndt-phase
