Honda Aircraft Company announced today that it has completed all function and reliability (F&R) test conditions and is concluding F&R flights for the HondaJet. The announcement was part of a program update shared at the National Business Aviation Association Convention and Exhibition, which is being held in Las Vegas from Nov. 17 to 19.
"Honda Aircraft will conclude testing with the FAA in a few days, which will pave the way for HondaJet type certification and entry into service," said Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. "We are expecting FAA type certification of the world's most advanced light jet very soon."
Function and reliability testing simulates typical, in-service flight operations for a new aircraft design. Testing includes takeoffs, landings, system operations, failure cases, approaches, and operations in hot, cold, and humid environments. This ensures the aircraft, including its components and equipment, is reliable and functioning properly. The HondaJet has flown missions to 54 airports in 31 states in the continental United States as part of F&R testing.
In October, Honda Aircraft completed all Part 23 certification flight testing. The flight test program has exceeded 3,000 total flight hours and testing was conducted at more than 70 locations in the U.S.
HondaJet World Tour Demonstrated Aircraft Maturity
This year, the HondaJet completed a successful world tour with the aircraft making its first appearances in Japan, Europe and South America. The world tour, combined with a North American demonstration tour, has demonstrated the aircraft's maturity, reliability and readiness for entry into service. The HondaJet flew more than 300 total hours in North America, Japan, Europe and South America.
Honda Aircraft Training Center Operational
Since becoming operational in late 2014, the Honda Aircraft Training Center in Greensboro has been preparing to train pilots and maintenance technicians by increasing staff, developing infrastructure and finalizing curriculums.
Honda Aircraft has partnered with FlightSafety International, the world's leading aviation training organization, to develop a program that incorporates the latest technology. This includes enhanced graphic systems and operational day flow (ODF) to allow pilots a seamless transition from the classroom to the cockpit.
The HondaJet flight simulator has been certified Interim Level C by the FAA. Following HondaJet type certification, the simulator will be certified Level D and ready for type-rating training.
"Honda Aircraft is not only bringing new value to the market with the HondaJet, but also a higher standard for aircraft ownership" said Fujino. "Together with the HondaJet dealer network, we have built the infrastructure to deliver on our objective, and we are now ready for entry into service."
About HondaJet
The HondaJet is the fastest, highest-flying, quietest, and most fuel-efficient jet in its class. The HondaJet incorporates many technological innovations in aviation design, including the unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that dramatically improves performance and fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag. The OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in its class, the largest baggage capacity, and a fully serviceable private aft lavatory. The HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines, and is equipped with the most sophisticated glass flight deck available in any light business jet, a
Honda-customized Garmin® G3000. The HondaJet is Honda's first commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value.
About Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Founded in 2006, Honda Aircraft's world headquarters is located in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's longstanding dreams to advance human mobility skyward.
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