Bangkok--8 Aug--Aziam Burson-Marsteller
Honda Aircraft Company announced today that the first production HondaJet achieved its initial flight, marking another milestone towards aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015. The first production HondaJet made its public debut at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
Mr. Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, said, “With this first flight, the HondaJet program has entered the next exciting phase as we prepare for delivery. Today’s celebration is the culmination of extensive engineering and production efforts, and this is an important achievement in bringing the world’s most advanced light jet to market.”
Mr. Jack J. Pelton, EAA’s chairman of the board, said, “We again welcome the impressive innovation and technology from the Honda Aircraft team. It has been fascinating to watch the development of the HondaJet from its original concept to the production aircraft shown here at Oshkosh. It is a tribute to the entire Honda team that made it possible.”
The first production aircraft lifted off from the Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO) on 27 June 2014 at 10:18 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. It took about the 84-minute flight and climbed to 15,500 feet and reached a speed of 348 Knots True Airspeed (KTAS). The crew completed several checks during the flight including low and high speed handling characteristics, avionics and system functionality including landing gear, flaps and speed brake operations.
This aircraft is finished in the new signature HondaJet paint scheme in a deep green pearl with a gold stripe. The new color introduction is in addition to four exterior color options available to customers, which also include silver, red, yellow and blue. Aircraft production continues its steady pace in advance of entry into service. This steady buildup supports the company’s objective to have aircraft ready for delivery immediately after Federal Aviation Administration type certification is achieved. The HondaJet is currently offered for sale in North America and Europe through the HondaJet dealer network.
The HondaJet is the world’s most advanced light jet, and its distinctive design incorporates advanced technologies and concepts. The HondaJet-patented Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration, natural laminar flow wing, and composite fuselage were developed from long-term research activities. These innovations combine to make the HondaJet the fastest, most spacious and most fuel-efficient jet in its class.
The HondaJet flies at a maximum cruise speed of 420 knots (483 mph) and has a maximum altitude of 43,000 feet. The aircraft seats up to five passengers in a standard configuration and can travel at an NBAA IFR range of 1,180 nautical miles (1,357 miles).