Range Map

Origin:

• nm at current load

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Payload vs. Range

Configure weights

Default: 190 lbs

Default: 30 lbs

Occupants
lb + lbs / pax

gal

Fuel on board

lbs

Extra weight

nm

Range

Available Range / nm
Mission capable. Aircraft can handle the current load with full fuel tanks.
Fuel tradeoff required. You'll need to leave gallons of fuel behind ( gal usable for nm range).
Over max gross weight. Reduce payload by lbs to safely operate this aircraft.
Extra weight is the additional payload available with your selected passengers.

Mission Profile

Used market Only available used
450
KTAS
Cruise Speed
1,590
nm
Max Range
41,000
ft
Service Ceiling
8
Occupants
675
lbs
Wet Payload
Endorsements & ratings:
  • High-Altitude
  • Pressurization
  • Multi-Engine
  • Instrument

Estimated Ownership Costs

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About the Learjet 23

Type certificated 1964 Source: FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet

Overview

The Learjet 23 is the genesis of the private jet industry. Introduced in 1964 and designed by Bill Lear’s team using elements adapted from the Swiss FFA P-16 ground-attack fighter, the original Learjet brought fighter-class climb and cruise speed to the civilian market for the first time. 104 airframes were built between 1964 and 1966 before production transitioned to the refined Learjet 24; the type was certificated for two-pilot operation only and powered by twin General Electric CJ610 turbojets, with fuel carried in the iconic wing-tip tanks.

For the GA buyer today, a Learjet 23 is a collector aircraft, not a working business jet. Stage 2 noise restrictions effectively bar the type from many US and European fields without expensive hush-kit modifications, parts support is sparse after sixty-plus years, and the demanding low-speed handling places it well outside any entry-level jet bracket. The realistic audience is vintage-jet operators, restoration projects, and the small set of charter operators that can build a story around an original Learjet. For buyers drawn to the same identity in a more current package, the Learjet 25 is the volume sibling on the same CJ610 platform and the Learjet 31 is the modern hot-rod descendant.

Key Features for GA Buyers

  • Rocket-like performance. With a power-to-weight ratio approaching that of fighter aircraft, the Lear 23 boasts an initial climb rate of 6,900 fpm. It can reach 40,000 ft in under 10 minutes.
  • Vintage appeal. Owning a Lear 23 is owning a classic. It attracts attention on any ramp due to its history and distinctive tip tanks.
  • Entry price. While operating costs are high, the acquisition cost of these vintage airframes can be surprisingly low compared to modern jets.

Trade-offs

  • Noise restrictions. The General Electric CJ610 turbojets are extremely loud (Stage 2). Without expensive “hush kits,” this aircraft is banned from operating at many airports in the US and Europe.
  • Pilot workload. The Lear 23 is a two-pilot aircraft known for demanding handling characteristics, particularly at low speeds. It has a high accident rate historically due to its unforgiving nature.
  • Range and comfort. The cabin is very small (you cannot stand up), and while fast, the range is limited to approximately 1,500 nm, necessitating fuel stops for cross-country trips.
  • Maintenance. Parts scarcity and the age of the airframe (60+ years) make maintenance a challenge for the faint of heart.

See Also

  • Learjet 24 – the immediate successor with refined certification and minor airframe improvements. Compare
  • Learjet 25 – the stretched ten-seat variant that became the volume seller of the CJ610 era. Compare
  • Learjet 35/36 – the TFE731 turbofan modernization that succeeded the original CJ610 line. Compare
  • Learjet 31 – the modern hot-rod descendant with TFE731-2 turbofans and 51,000 ft ceiling. Compare

Technical Specifications

Dimensions & Weights

Wingspan 35.6 ft
Height
12.6 ft
Length
43.3 ft
Parking area (ft2)
2202.48 ft2
Max Takeoff Weight
12,500 lbs
Max Landing Weight
11,880 lbs
Useful Load
6,350 lbs
Fuel Capacity
847 gal

Performance

Cruise Speed
450 KTAS
Never-Exceed (VNE)
Source: FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet 350 KIAS
Max Structural Cruise (VNO)
Source: FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet 350 KIAS
Approach Speed
128 KIAS
Stall, Clean (VS1)
90 KIAS
Range
1590 NM
Service Ceiling
Source: FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet 41,000 ft
Rate of Climb
6900 fpm
Takeoff over 50 ft obstacle
3,393 ft
Landing ground roll
3,310 ft

Engines

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Sources

Where the figures on this page come from. Learjet 23 specifications are traced to published references; estimated values are flagged inline next to the figure.

Similar to the Learjet 23

Similar Jets

Learjet 25

Cruise
464 kts (higher than this aircraft)
Range
1437 nm (lower than this aircraft)
Seats
10
2 × Jet Low Wing Used market
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Learjet 24

Cruise
439 kts (lower than this aircraft)
Range
1100 nm (lower than this aircraft)
Seats
8
2 × Turbojet Low Wing Used market
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Dassault Falcon/Mystère 10

Cruise
454 kts (higher than this aircraft)
Range
1520 nm (lower than this aircraft)
Seats
9
2 × Jet Low Wing Used market
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Gulfstream G150

Cruise
459 kts (higher than this aircraft)
Range
3000 nm (higher than this aircraft)
Seats
8
2 × Jet Low Wing
Compare

See how the Learjet 23 stacks up against similar aircraft

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