Honda Introduces the HondaJet Echelon as a Honda Light Jet that Has Advanced Technology
Honda Aircraft Company introduced its newest jet aircraft with the name HondaJet Echelon at the 2023 National Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) which took place on 17 - 19 October 2023 in Las Vegas, United States. The HondaJet Echelon represents the company's vision for a next-generation business jet that delivers greater efficiency while providing premium comfort and convenience.
The HondaJet Echelon brings superior technology and capabilities, previously introduced as the HondaJet 2600 Concept in 2021, which provides an exhilarating experience like that of a mid-sized jet in the light jet category. The aircraft was designed to be the world's first light jet that could be operated by a single pilot and was capable of non-stop transcontinental flights across the United States.
This aims to reduce operational costs and provide a different experience for the owner. In addition, the HondaJet Echelon design includes elements of electrification and automation in its systems, with the aim of increasing pilot capabilities, reducing workload and increasing safety levels.
The HondaJet Echelon design concept focuses on improving travel efficiency in every aspect, with the goal of fulfilling the mission and providing an experience typically only found on larger aircraft. The aircraft will deliver superior fuel efficiency through aerodynamic innovation, outperforming conventional light jets on typical missions by up to 20% and mid-sized jets by up to 40%. The HondaJet Echelon will also provide a holistic focus on the cabin experience that includes space, comfort and productivity.
Hideto Yamasaki as President & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company said, "HondaJet Echelon was created to present a new category that surpasses the travel experience with conventional light jets. Bringing mobility to the skies has been Honda's long-term dream, and HondaJet Echelon is an exciting new chapter, as well as showcasing Honda's classic story of creating new value for society."
Honda Aircraft Company has achieved a number of important milestones in the development of the HondaJet Echelon,
- Installation of the first structural test frame in the 4th Quarter of 2021,
- Graduation of conceptual design and completion of aircraft Preliminary Design Review (PDR).
- The company also celebrated the official activation ceremony of the HondaJet Echelon Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility (ASITF) at the company's headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, on August 30, 2023.
- The aircraft's detailed design process is currently underway, with a target aircraft-level Critical Design Review (CDR) in summer 2024, and most of the major fabrication is already in progress.
Production of the HondaJet Echelon will take place at Honda Aircraft Company's existing facility at its global headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, with initial construction scheduled to begin in 2024. First flight is scheduled for 2026, and type certification is expected to be completed in 2024. 2028.
Honda Aircraft Company is also committed to supporting sustainability and has joined the NBAA-BACE 2023 Sustainability Commitment, demonstrating the company's commitment to making NBAA-BACE a more environmentally friendly event. The company also uses the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Book and Claim (SAFC) Program for ferry flights to and from NBAA-BACE, as part of the industry's support for carbon neutrality.
