Learjet 45
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 83; Flight Crew Total 3850; Flight Crew Type 530
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
During cruise at FL400; the Pilot Monitoring noted a crack developing across the midpoint of the left windscreen. Approximately 15 seconds later the entirety of the left windscreen outer ply fractured; leading to no forward visibility from the left seat pilot. The Pilot Monitoring initiated the 'cracked windscreen' checklist and followed line items per the LR45 airplane flight manual. Per the manual; a descent was requested to FL250 or below. Upon approval; the crew descended to FL250. Air traffic control was notified of the cracked windscreen. Passengers were made aware of the situation and advised to remain seated and belted. The crew discussed several options and determined that a landing at the intended destination under VFR conditions was the most correct option. Flight controls were transferred to the right seat pilot and pilot monitoring duties were transferred to the left seat pilot. A landing from the right seat was made and the flight concluded with the normal debarcation of passengers on the FBO ramp.
As PIC of this flight and performing Pilot Monitoring duties. At approximately XA:45hrs; FL 400; 350 miles SE of VOR. I noticed a brown streak; with bubbles forming through the middle of the left windshield; soon after a loud bang. The outer layer of the windshield shattered resulting in poor visibility from left windshield. The appropriate checklist was completed in accordance with the manufactures QRH. Passengers/cabin were briefed & secured. ATC was notified of the situation and a descent to FL 250 was requested and granted. Weather; NOTAMs and airport conditions at the destination were the most favorable and the decision was made to land there. The landing at ZZZ was uneventful; no assistance for the passengers was required. The Director of Operations and Chief Pilot were immediately notified.
LR45 flight crew reported Captain's cockpit windshield outer layer failed.