The National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University enters into a relationship with Learjet to provide material and structural testing and certification for the new Learjet 85 midsize business jet.

Through a long-term contract, NIAR will be involved in the FAA certification of the aircraft from the testing of coupon samples to the structural certification of full-scale components.

The agreement with Bombardier Learjet represents the largest single NIAR industry contract in Wichita State history, according to WSU President Don Beggs. The contract is expected to total between $10 million and $20 million, said John Tomblin, NIAR executive director.

Launched on Oct. 30, 2007, the new Learjet 85 aircraft will be the first Learjet to feature an all-composite structure and will be the first all-composite structure business jet designed for type certification under U.S. Federal Aviation Administration FAR Part 25.