The Learjet was a popular business jet with nearly 3,000 of its planes delivered since 1963. In the older generation where nonstop flights were not common, many companies choose to use the Learjets to take their administrators from one place to another. Hollywood stars also used these jets to shoot from different locations. But since February this year, the Learjet has become nothing but a legend. Its parent company Bombardier formally announced the end of its production to focus on Global and Challenger airplanes.

The Learjet, originally from a family of a Swiss fighter jet, was named after aviation and electronic founder Bill Lear. Many passengers adored the Learjet’s airplane cabin where they can sit comfortably like in a family car. But it had one big problem: the cabin height is merely 4’4″ (1.32 meters). Back in the 1960s, it wasn’t an issue but as the generation progresses, so do its demands. It’s no match to the cabin height of Bombardier’s Global 7500/8000 aircraft that is 6’2″ (1.8 meters). The Learjet also had a 2,000-mile range that was perfect for those who want to travel by air without any delay. But the international economy and business flights changed from the 1970s to the 1990s, meaning the Learjet’s flying capacity was no longer enough. Nowadays, jets can go over 6,000 miles in more than 12 hours.

Sadly, the Learjet can no longer keep up with current airplanes. As the world advances, so do the modes of transportation. But we should never forget what started the development in air travel: the legendary Learjet itself.