News Release

NJM's world speed record attempt took place on April 10, 2016 from Grand Rapids to Naples in Florida.

Known for its safety record, Northern Jet Management now also claims speed record

Northern Jet Management, one of the nation's largest Learjet operators recognized nationally for its safety record, has set a world speed record from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Naples, Florida, in a Bombardier Learjet 45XR aircraft. The speed over the recognized course was 492.50 mph. Northern Jet Management adhered to the highest safety and operational standards throughout the flight.

“Northern Jet Management has long been known for safely delivering passengers from one location to the next,” shared Chuck Cox, CEO of Northern Jet Management. “In fact, our team has been operating business aircraft for more than 99,000 consecutive hours without an incident involving damage to property or injury to persons.”

“Safety is our number one priority,” continued Cox. “And it always will be. But this world speed record is another achievement our team can be proud of.”

The world speed record attempt took place on April 10, 2016, and followed the normal flight path from Grand Rapids to Naples. It has been approved by the National Aeronautic Association and submitted to the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) in Lausanne, Switzerland for international ratification. The Bombardier Learjet 45XR was piloted by Andy Heemstra and Steve Edmondson, two of Northern Jet Management's crew members. 537 gallons of fuel were burned during the flight.

“This record-setting project was designed to highlight our ability to safely and efficiently transport our customers from the Midwest to southern Florida in less than three hours, and it was an honor to be a part of it,” said Captain Andy Heemstra. “In setting this record, we paid particular attention to operating the aircraft in a manner 100 percent consistent with how we would operate with customers aboard.”