GREENSBORO, N.C.— The first production HondaJet achieved its initial flight June 27, marking another milestone toward aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015.
“With this first flight, the HondaJet program has entered the next exciting phase as we prepare for delivery,” said Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino.
The first production aircraft lifted off from the Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO) at 10:18 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. During the 84-minute flight, the aircraft climbed to 15,500 feet and reached a speed of 348 Knots True Airspeed (KTAS). Following a smooth landing, the aircraft and its crew were greeted by more than 1,000 Honda Aircraft team members to commemorate the milestone.
The aircraft was flown by test pilot Warren Gould, pilot-in-command. 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, according to company officials. This steady build-up supports the company’s objective to have aircraft ready for delivery immediately after FAA type certification is achieved. The HondaJet will be single-pilot certified and is currently offered for sale in North America and Europe through the HondaJet dealer network.
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).
The HondaJet is powered by two GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines, and is equipped with the Honda-customized Garmin G3000 next-generation, all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers.
For more information: Hondajet.com