The long-awaited decision by Honda Aircraft that it will begin production of the HondaJet has finally been made. Announced at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Florida, the first production HondaJet is now under assembly after 12 months of flight, systems and structural testing of the design.
“An assembly line for HondaJet production is in place, major aircraft components including the fuselage and wing have been produced, and we have started assembly of the first customer aircraft,” said Honda Aircraft President and CEO Michimasa Fujino.
The company’s fifth FAA-conforming test aircraft will take to the skies early in 2013 and will be the first with production-standard fit-out.
The aircraft features an innovative over-wing engine mounting design is expected to offer a maximum cruise speed of 420KTAS and a maximum cruise altitude of 43,000ft. Interior configurations allow for up to six passengers.
