Israel Aircraft Industries acquired the design of the 1121 Jet Commander in 1968 and rebranded it as the Commodore Jet. Their foray into the world of private jets took a significant leap forward in 1972 with the introduction of the Westwind I, a ten-passenger marvel featuring a lengthened fuselage. However, it was the unveiling of the Westwind II in 1980 that marked a new era in private jet travel.

The Westwind II, a testament to technological advancements, retained the cherished price-to-performance ratio of its predecessor while introducing a range of enhancements. Perhaps most striking are its distinctive winglets, perched atop the tiptanks. Unlike conventional winglet designs that replace the tiptanks, this innovation proved more effective, substantially improving the lift-to-drag ratio.

Another noteworthy upgrade is the Sigma wing, a recontoured wing that accommodates 1.5 times more fuel, enabling a higher takeoff weight—an additional 500 pounds, to be precise. This leads to an initial cruise range elevated by 2,000 feet and an overall range increase of five percent. These enhancements, coupled with its low-slung fuselage reminiscent of the Aero Commander, translate to superior operating weights and remarkable hot-and-high performance.

Powering the Westwind II are two Honeywell TFE731-3-1G turbofan engines, each boasting 3,700 pounds of thrust and an inspection interval of 4,200 hours.

Stepping into the cockpit, you’ll find the Collins FMS90 flight management system, dual Collins VHF 20A comms, dual Collins VIR 30A navs, dual DME FCS80 flight control system, the FDS85 flight director, APS80 autopilot, and the RNS300 radar navigation system.

The cabin, though relatively compact, features a divan often found in larger executive-class business jets. With a capacity for seven passengers in a four-seat club arrangement and a three-seat side-facing divan, there’s ample space for comfortable travel. A galley/refreshment center and a full-width lavatory round out the cabin’s amenities. Measuring 4.9 feet in height, 4.8 feet in width, and 15.9 feet in length, it provides a cozy yet functional environment.

Despite its vintage, the Westwind II remains a viable choice in the medium-range private jet category, thanks to its comprehensive airframe makeover that significantly enhances its performance. Whether you’re in the market to purchase or charter, the Westwind II’s distinctive design ensures you won’t miss it.

Performance-wise, the Westwind II offers a range of 2,500 nautical miles, a maximum payload of 3,250 pounds, and a payload of 860 pounds with full fuel. Its runway performance includes a takeoff distance of 5,125 feet at sea level under ISA conditions and a landing distance of 8,800 feet. In the skies, it achieves a maximum cruise speed of 436 knots and a long-range cruise speed of 402 knots. For shorter trips, it clocks in at 47 minutes for 300 nautical miles, 92 minutes for 600 nautical miles, and 151 minutes for 1,000 nautical miles. With a maximum certified altitude of 45,000 feet, it’s ready for high-altitude adventures.

In terms of operating costs, the Westwind II maintains its appeal with a variable cost of $1,544 per hour. Annual fixed costs include liability and hull insurance at $30,203, maintenance software at $57,601, miscellaneous services at $56,702, modernization expenses at $37,601, and training costs for flight crew and maintenance technicians. Facilities costs for hangar/office lease and miscellaneous office expenses total $45,427. Personnel costs include pilot salaries at $311,600, technician expenses at $36,000, and contractor fees at $25,000. The total annual cost, calculated as annual fixed costs plus variable costs multiplied by hours flown, sums up to $642,734.

In summary, the Westwind II stands as a testament to timeless design, combining innovation and efficiency to deliver a remarkable private jet experience.