The decision by Bombardier to stop production of the Learjet stunned not only Wichita, Kansas where the corporate aircraft is manufactured but no doubt its supporting facilities, as well as users. It will bring an end to the iconic-corporate jet that has been produced for nearly 60 years and was linked to oil and gas companies that flew their executives and workers around the world.
Eric Martell, president and CEO of Bombardier said it obviously means an end of manufacturing the Learjet brand which means losses of jobs.
As Aviation Week magazine reported, the loss means 1,600 jobs this year. including 250 in Wichita, another 100 in Ontario and 700 in Quebec.
In 2019, Bombardier, the aircraft manufacturer with operations in Oklahoma City announced it intended to build and assemble its newest business jet, the Learjet 75 Liberty in Wichita.
At the time, a public affairs spokesman for Bombardier stated, “The Learjet 75 Liberty demonstrates our commitment to this iconic brand.” He called it a “supreme vote of confidence” in the Learjet product and Wichita site and “paves the way for a busy future on the Learjet production line.”
Something changed between 2019 and 2021.
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