The Bombardier Learjet 60 XR has successfully executed a two hour, 20 minute first flight.

The first Learjet 60 XR departed Eastern Iowa Airport at Cedar Rapids and achieved a maximum first flight altitude of 17,500 feet and a maximum true airspeed of 310 knots. Carrying 5,300 pounds of fuel, the weight at takeoff was 20,000 pounds.

The aircraft's maiden flight was dedicated to testing the general functionality of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite. System operations were exercised specifically during multiple approaches.

The three-man crew, including Captain Douglas May, a 15-year career pilot, flight test engineer Bernie Hayes and co-pilot Keith Kankelfitz of Rockwell Collins, conducted specific testing to evaluate the system's integrated displays, including the edge-to-edge Attitude Deviation Indicators (ADIs) and the Flight Management Systems (FMS) to avionics interface.

"With its large displays and improved access to flight information, the new avionics system certainly proved its worth, making it simpler to stay connected with the world outside the aircraft," said Captain May.

"The ADIs provided an easy-to-interpret reference for all aircraft attitudes. The FMS-to-avioncs interface successfully delivered more critical flight information with greater ease; and chart operations were intuitive and provided exceptional situational awareness."