Learjets: The World's Executive Aircraft - Softcover

Porter, Donald J.

9780830624409: Learjets: The World's Executive Aircraft

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0830624406 ISBN 13: 9780830624409

Publisher: Tab Books, 1990

The aviation world laughed when, in the late 1950s, maverick Bill Lear proposed the idea of a jet designed and built exclusively for transporting corporate executives. No one believed there would be enough demand for such an airplane. As was often the case, Lear proved his detractors wrong. By the mid-1960s, the term "Learjet" had become synonymous with corporate air travel - Lear had singlehandedly revolutionized private business transportation.

This is the compelling story of Bill Lear and the aircraft that assured his place in the annals of aviation history. Author Donald J. Porter traces the history of Learjets, from conception to later production models - with absorbing accounts of how the modern executive jet concept evolved, the problems Lear encountered in producing the aircraft and the Learjet's early technical problems. Included are breathtaking photos and many excellent illustrations depicting the aircraft's innovative design, as well as detailed specifications and performance data for each model.

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From the Back Cover:

If history were to record a fervent, almost fanatical dedication to a boss, Lear's reign as an industrialist would surely top the list. Lear was a visionary. His indomitable drive enabled him to communicate that strong vision. He loved to prove people wrong when "they said it couldn't be done." . . . The other half of his success can be ascribed to his considerable staying power. His bursts of energy kept the vision moving swiftly to fruition. Regardless of the odds against him, Lear wouldn't give up, exemplifying the quintessential American entrepreneur.

-- from Chapter 2

About the Author:

Donald J. Porter authored the first definitive history of the Hughes OH-6A helicopter. He also wrote two books that profile the development of the Learjet and Citation business jets. His latest book, Howard's Whirlybirds: Howard Hughes's Amazing Helicopter Exploits, chronicles the history of Hughes Helicopters, its aircraft and the people behind them. During a decade at Hughes Helicopters, he worked in a variety of roles ranging from OH-6A technical representative in Vietnam to project engineer and proposal manager on the Apache helicopter program. Following a successful career as a corporate communications executive in the electronics industry, and later in a senior communications post at a state university, he now writes books and articles about aviation.

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