Westwind Jets

The original Westwind, known as the 1121 Jet Commander was designed by U.S.-based Aero Commander and had its first flight in 1963. Soon after, Aero Commander was acquired by North American Rockwell, home of the Sabreliner - which already had its own version of an executive jet. Rather than violate anti-trust laws, the company opted to sell off its design rights to IAI (Israel Aircraft Industries), who proceeded to produce their own version, the Westwind 1123 in 1970.

The longer-range, vastly improved Westwind 1124 followed, until reaching its final incarnation, the IAI Westwind 2 in 1979. The Westwind 2 took its place as the most refined version of the original, boasting modified wing and winglets for better performance, increased fuel capacity, headroom, flat cabin floor and a modernized lavatory.

Westwind production ceased in 1987 in favor of the 1125 Astra.