Honda Aircraft
The HondaJet 2600 Concept aircraft.

Honda Starts Commercialization for New Light Aircraft

June 14, 2023
Honda Aircraft is initiating a new production program for the high-speed twin-engine concept jet it unveiled in 2021, assigning major supply contracts and setting 2028 as the date for its certification.

Honda Aircraft Co. will commercialize its HondaJet 2600 Concept aircraft as a new entry in the growing private aviation industry, targeting 2028 for certification. The light jet was unveiled in 2021 and, according to the developer, has “garnered a positive market reaction.”

Honda also indicated that it is finalizing engineering designs for the twin-engine concept aircraft, and it named a number of manufacturers who will supply the HondaJet 2600 program. Those include Williams International for FJ44-4C turbofan engines; Aernnova for aerostructures and other components; Spirit AeroSystems for the composite-material fuselage and composite-bonded frame; and Garmin for avionics systems.

“Fabrication activities” are underway, it added.

"The commercialization of our new light jet represents Honda's next chapter of skyward mobility, which further expands the potential of people's lives," stated Honda Aircraft Co. CEO and president Hideto Yamasaki. "By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the program with sustainability a key element throughout."

Greensboro, N.C.-based Honda Aircraft is a subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., established in 2006 and currently offering the HondaJet Elite II light jet for the private aircraft market.

The HondaJet 2600 concept aircraft is designed for high-speed, high-altitude, long-distance flights, reportedly capable of non-stop transcontinental routes with a maximum cruise speed of 450 knots (518 mph) and maximum ceiling of 47,000 feet. It will offer room for 11 occupants, in a “quiet and spacious cabin,” according to HondaJet.

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