Hondanews Online Newsroom

HondaJet: GE Honda Aero Engines Approaches Final HF120 Certification Test

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:15:00 -0700

GE Honda Aero Engines announced today it is nearing completion of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification testing on its HF120 engine. In the last six months, the HF120 engine successfully completed crosswind testing and the 150-hour block endurance test. The final remaining test, the medium bird ingestion, is scheduled for completion in July. More than 95 percent of the certification documents to the FAA have been submitted with more than 84 percent already approved.

"The 150-hour block endurance test is very difficult and puts an engine through conditions that it will never experience in the field. We are extremely pleased with the engine's performance during the tests and the condition of the HF120's endurance test hardware," said Terry Sharp, president of GE Honda Aero Engines. "We anticipate finishing testing in July with engine type certification from the FAA expected in the fourth quarter."

A total of 13 HF120 engines have accumulated more than 7,300 hours and more than 9,700 cycles during development and certification testing at nine different test locations. This included accumulation of 3,000 cycles on one engine as part of its endurance validation program. The validation program simulates flight cycles, and the engine will serve as the fleet leader, well ahead of entry-into-service.

The supply chain is ramping up for HF120 engine production with components being stocked. GE's facility in Lynn, Mass. is responsible for initial production. Production will transition to the Honda Aero Inc.'s facility in Burlington, N.C., soon after certification of the HF120.

GE Honda is also establishing its customer service and support program. The support model will consist of a network of GE Honda Authorized Service Providers, a 24/7 GE Honda Operations Center, dedicated field technical managers and customer team managers, among other support operations. GE Honda will offer long-term engine service agreements with Enhanced and Comprehensive maintenance and support services that go above and beyond the basic engine warranty, with coverage of both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events.

In 2004, GE and Honda formed a 50/50 joint venture, called GE Honda Aero Engines, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. The joint company integrates the resources of GE Aviation and Honda Aero, Inc., a Honda subsidiary established to manage its aviation engine business. The GE Honda HF120 engine program was launched in 2006 and was selected to power Honda Aircraft Company's advanced light jet, the HondaJet.

Rated at 2,095 pounds of thrust, the HF120 engine succeeds Honda's original HF118 prototype engine, which accumulated more than 4,000 hours of testing on the ground and in-flight. GE and Honda redesigned the engine for higher thrust and new standards of performance in fuel efficiency, durability, low noise and emissions.

HF120 technologies include:

A wide-chord, compound-swept front fan and two-stage booster along with composite outlet guide vanes.
A high-temperature titanium impeller in the compressor for maximum engine pressure ratio and stall-free performance.
A compact reverse-flow configuration combustor and single-stage air-blast fuel nozzles.
Advanced materials in the high-pressure turbine as well as a two-stage low-pressure (LP) turbine and a counter-rotating high-pressure and LP spool shaft system.

A key cost-of-ownership advantage of the HF120 will be the ability to operate at a best-in-class 5,000 hours between major overhauls. The advanced airfoil materials and coatings that GE and Honda have developed for the engine's high-pressure turbine section enable this capability.

Honda (NYSE: HMC) is the world's largest engine manufacturer, annually producing more than 20 million engines for a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment, and Honda and Acura automobiles.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings.

For additional information, visit GE Honda Aero Engines at: http://www.gehonda.com/

Honda website: http://www.honda.com and its media website: http://www.hondanews.com

GE website: http://www.ge.com, and its Aviation business at http://www.geaviation.com

For questions on GE's engine division, please contact Deb Case (513)243-0094

For questions on Honda's Aero Engine business, please contact Mel Solomon (513)552-7857

HondaJet: Fifth FAA-Conforming HondaJet Achieves First Flight

Mon, 20 May 2013 03:00:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today announced that its fifth Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conforming HondaJet, equipped with a production interior matching the final customer aircraft, successfully completed its first flight on May 16, 2013 at the company's world headquarters in Greensboro, N.C. With this achievement, the HondaJet program approaches the final phase of flight testing as the company advances toward FAA aircraft certification of the world's most advanced light jet.

"An aircraft's first flight is an important and emotional milestone," said Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. "This is especially true for our fifth FAA-conforming HondaJet. This aircraft is equipped with a production interior and options, and it will anchor the final leg of our flight test program. From inside and out, this HondaJet matches the final configuration of a customer aircraft."

The light jet lifted off at 3:00 p.m. EDT from the Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO). During the 60-minute flight, the aircraft performed very smoothly with an initial climb to 12,000 feet reaching a top speed of 300 Knots True Air Speed (KTAS).

Howard Judd, pilot-in-command, and Stefan Johansson, co-pilot, completed several checks during the flight, including low and high speed handling characteristics, avionics and system functionality including the stall protection system. Data gathered during the flight was transmitted in real time to the company's on-site flight test telemetry operations for analysis.

This aircraft will be used for function and reliability (F&R) testing. F&R testing will simulate in-service flight operations of the aircraft. It has a production interior with standard lavatory and options including a side-facing seat, and will be used for interior and cabin systems tests. Future testing on the aircraft will also analyze the controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC).

The fifth conforming HondaJet features the signature HondaJet paint scheme in a special edition blue and pearl white finish with a metallic gold stripe, an artistic moniker to signify the plane's unique role to the program. The cabin's color palette is parchment, a pale beige base that is one of two interior color options available on the HondaJet.

Since 2010, Honda Aircraft has developed and produced six FAA-conforming HondaJets. Four active flight test aircraft include:

First conforming aircraft – aerodynamics, performance, and stability and control testing
Third conforming aircraft – mechanical system testing
Fourth conforming aircraft – avionics and electrical testing
Fifth conforming aircraft – function and reliability (F&R) testing; and cabin system and interior, and options testing

Two ground test aircraft include:

Second conforming aircraft – structural testing and retired from the ground test program in 2012 after successfully completing all ultimate load testing, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) bird strike test, and seat attachment test
Sixth conforming aircraft – structural testing and joined the program in October 2012; currently being used for static testing and damage tolerance testing

"Our flight test fleet maintains a very active schedule and continues to complete milestones for FAA certification flight testing," said Fujino.

The HondaJet is priced at $4.5 million (€3.41 million), and its design incorporates advanced technologies and concepts. The HondaJet patented Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration, natural-laminar flow wing and fuselage nose and composite fuselage were developed from long-term research activities. These innovations combine to make the HondaJet the fastest, most spacious and most fuel-efficient jet in its class.

About HondaJet
HondaJet is the world's most advanced light business jet aircraft, with best-in-class advantages in performance, comfort, quality and efficiency. 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. OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in 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 next-generation all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda's first commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value.

For more information, visit www.hondajet.com.

Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., was founded in 2006 though has its heritage in more than 20 years of groundbreaking aeronautical research and development. At Honda Aircraft's world headquarters in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation, the company's associates work in more than 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art R&D, manufacturing and administration headquarter buildings to develop, produce, market and support the HondaJet with HondaJet dealers. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's long-standing dreams to advance human mobility skyward.

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HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Achieves Several Significant HondaJet Milestones and Provides Program Update at 2013 EBACE

Mon, 20 May 2013 02:57:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today announced a number of achievements and significant milestones in the development of the HondaJet, the world's most advanced light jet, at the 2013 European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland.

"The HondaJet program is steadily approaching the final phase of flight testing, and manufacturing has transitioned to production of customer aircraft," said Michimasa Fujino, president and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. "I'm committed to bringing new value to aviation by introducing the HondaJet. At the same time, Honda Aircraft Company continues to build the infrastructure and talent to design, manufacture and service this revolutionary aircraft."

Testing and certification
The HondaJet flight test fleet has been busy completing milestones and testing various systems. The program has flown approximately 3,300 test points for stability and control, aircraft performance, landing gear, flight controls, environmental controls, steering, braking, avionics and electrical systems. Below are a few of the highlights:

Aerodynamics – The program has completed flight testing from stall to high speed dive. Stall testing included stall characteristics, stall speeds, handling qualities and performance. The flight test engineering team also recently conducted flutter testing at high and low altitude, and the aircraft flight envelope was expanded to the maximum dive speed (VD).
Function and reliability – On May 16, 2013, the program's fifth FAA-conforming HondaJet achieved its first flight. This aircraft will be used for function and reliability (F&R) testing. F&R testing will simulate in-service flight operations of the aircraft. It has a production interior with standard lavatory and options including a side-facing seat, and will be used for interior and cabin systems tests. (Details of the fifth FAA-conforming aircraft's first flight are included in a related release.)
Environmental – In March, Honda Aircraft conducted cold weather testing in International Falls, Minn., to examine aircraft systems under extreme temperatures. Testing included windshield heat and anti-icing systems, mechanical systems operations, avionics functional checks and electrical system testing. HondaJet wing anti-ice and nacelle inlet anti-ice tests were also conducted at the NASA Glenn Research Tunnel in Cleveland, Ohio. This remote testing augments hot weather testing conducted in Yuma, Ariz., last year, which included critical case tests for aircraft systems.
Structural testing – The test program successfully completed abnormal operation testing for the main entry door (MED) and emergency exit door (EED). These tests were conducted with the HondaJet program's second structural ground test aircraft, which joined the program in October 2012. It is being used for both static testing and damage tolerance testing to analyze the durability of composite structures. This testing supplements the previously completed ultimate load, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) bird strike and component structural testing.

"Our team is working very hard to bring the HondaJet to market as quickly as possible," said Fujino. "Customer and market expectations are high, and I am dedicated to certifying and delivering an aircraft that will bring our customers lasting joy. The more than 800 people working at Honda Aircraft Company will continue to challenge and achieve milestones."

Manufacturing transitioned to production of customer aircraft
Honda Aircraft Company manufacturing has fully transitioned to the production of customer aircraft. Collaboration between engineering, production control, supply chain and manufacturing continues to fine-tune the processes and workflow necessary to achieve lean production and quality requirements for FAA Production Certificate (PC).

Production efficiencies – Manufacturing's experience building the program's test fleet has influenced best practices to more efficiently produce a high quality customer aircraft. A recent line balance project reduced the overall work footprint and created a more efficient workflow. Technology is also playing a vital role in HondaJet manufacturing. Handheld tablet devices will electronically deliver orders and visual work instructions to technicians on the assembly floor; an Automatic Guided Cart (AGC) will pick up and deliver parts to assembly areas; and an innovative, on-site paint mixing system will deliver a superior aesthetic quality while reducing the overall quantity of paint needed to finish aircraft.

Building infrastructure to support the total HondaJet ownership experience
Construction continues on Honda Aircraft's new customer service center to provide aftermarket support for the HondaJet in Greensboro, N.C. Once in service, the facility will complement the HondaJet dealer network, which includes three dealers in Europe and seven in North America. The facility will be complete in the fall of 2013. Honda Aircraft is targeting the end of 2013 for facility FAA certification as a Part 145 repair station.

Honda Aircraft Company has invested in advanced technologies that fully integrate engineering, manufacturing, customer service and administration functions. The company's extensive IT infrastructure underscores Honda Aircraft's commitment to deliver superior customer service and support that is consistent with Honda's reputation for quality.

For aircraft maintenance tracking, Honda Aircraft will be endorsing CAMP. The program will help HondaJet customers monitor aircraft service requirements including reviewing scheduled inspections, service, maintenance planning documents, and regulatory airworthiness directives. In addition, Quantum Control is being used to integrate inventory, accounting, service and other critical functions.

"The energy and excitement on our campus is building, especially in manufacturing where customer aircraft can be seen on the assembly line," said Fujino. "We are not only building a game changing product, but also building the industry's best product support and customer service. Honda will continue to deepen our roots in aviation and create a higher standard for private aircraft ownership."

About HondaJet
HondaJet is the world's most advanced light business jet aircraft, with best-in-class advantages in performance, comfort, quality and efficiency. 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. OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in 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™ next-generation all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda's first commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value.

For more information, visit www.hondajet.com.

Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., was founded in 2006 though has its heritage in more than 20 years of groundbreaking aeronautical research and development. At Honda Aircraft's world headquarters in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation, the company's associates work in more than 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art R&D, manufacturing and administration headquarter buildings to develop, produce, market and support the HondaJet with HondaJet dealers. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's long-standing dreams to advance human mobility skyward.

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HondaJet: Honda 'Follow Your Dreams' Float to Lead 2013 Rose Parade

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 06:00:00 -0800

The Honda 2013 Rose Parade float entry, "Follow Your Dreams," will be the first float in the 124th Rose Parade, themed "Oh, the Places You'll Go!™," on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013. The float's design captures the theme through its imaginative depiction of innovative Honda technologies and Dr. Seuss-inspired features. This marks the 52nd year Honda has collaborated with the Tournament of Roses and its third year as presenting sponsor. The all-new 2013 Honda Accord Sedan will be the parade's official pace car and the all-new 2013 Honda Accord Coupe will serve as the sound car.

"The world of endless possibilities that awaits us all is creatively displayed on the Honda float, and it truly captures the spirit of the 124th Rose Parade theme, 'Oh, the Places You'll Go!,'" said Tournament of Roses president Sally M. Bixby. "'Follow Your Dreams' is a wonderful first float for the Parade on Jan. 1."

Parade-watchers will witness a 100-foot-long whimsical festival of dreams, imagination and youth that will include three world-champion athletes riding on the float: U.S. sprinter Carmelita Jeter, and from the summer's "Fierce Five" gymnastics team, McKayla Maroney and Kyla Ross.

The float has three islands featuring fantastical elements that could intersect in the inventiveness of a dream. On the middle island, a creative structure that emulates a castle, complete with an eclectic form of architecture for each roof, wall and staircase, is the centerpiece. A double-propeller helicopter-like apparatus with landing gear already extended is flying over a gateway that leads to a 16-foot-high working slide – the first working slide to be featured in the Tournament of Roses Parade. The slide is symbolic of the journey where dreams take you. Each rider of the slide will find this gateway as their starting point.

The slide connects the middle island to the front island of the float that features a mobile with a periscope that has moving legs. The HondaJet also is seen flying above colorful island trees.

A bridge extends from the center to the rear portion of the float with a sailboat traveling underneath and an American flag serving as a banner. The third island is topped with an airship complete with circular nose, exposed engine and an intertwined exhaust system. To the rear of a second smaller castle on the last island, ASIMO, the world's most advanced humanoid robot, is being lifted by colorful balloons. On the other side, a hot air balloon also can be seen floating toward the stars.

For the third straight year, Honda's float will be propelled by a specially configured hybrid, low-emission engine to help the float function more efficiently and reduce its carbon footprint.

"Honda believes in The Power of Dreams, and their ability to empower us to help make society a better place," said Stephan Morikawa, assistant vice president of American Honda Corporate Community Relations. "The Rose Parade is an opportunity to showcase innovative Honda technologies and to wish a happy New Year to everyone watching along the Parade route and on television."

The Honda float features more than 5,000 roses, 11,000 carnations and 2,500 gerberas. A variety of flowers, plants and seeds will be used, including lavender dendrobs, pink pincushion protea, white queen Anne's lace, dark blue iris, light pink carnations, orange roses, yellow button mums, bronze fine cut strawflower, purple fine cut statice, red hanging amaranth, Kermit green mums, brown flax seed, green ground parsley flakes, black onion seed, green ground split pea, shiny grey silverleaf, red large kidney beans and cream corn husk, among many others. All of these natural materials will later be ground up for mulch after the conclusion of the parade activities.

Honda first collaborated with the Tournament of Roses in 1961 to provide two-wheeled vehicles for 1962 Parade operations. Honda has been a float participant in the Rose Parade since 1977 and has provided the official Tournament of Roses vehicle since 1994. Honda continues to supply two-wheeled vehicles and also provides side-by-side (multi-utility) vehicles for Parade operations.

As presenting sponsor, the Honda float is annually the first in the Parade and showcases the theme. As a result, it will not be considered a commercial entry and will not compete during the judging process. Prior to becoming presenting sponsor in 2011, Honda floats won awards in 15 of the previous 16 years.

About Honda
Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. With nine U.S. plants, Honda has invested more than $12.5 billion in its U.S. operations. The company employs more than 26,000 associates and annually purchases $14 billion in parts and materials from more than 530 U.S. suppliers. Honda vehicles are manufactured using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Honda Multimedia Newsroom (for media only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda in America: http://www.hondainamerica.com
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/americanhonda
Honda on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/honda
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
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Honda Website: http://www.honda.com
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/
On Google+

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HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Expands Sales Network with Canadian Partner

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 10:46:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company announced today a new Canadian Authorized Sales Representative for the HondaJet, the world's most advanced light jet. Honda Aircraft and Skyservice Business Aviation signed the official agreement at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting and convention in Orlando, Fla., on Oct. 29. Skyservice will support HondaJet aircraft sales in Canada.

"Skyservice has an outstanding reputation in Canada as the country's largest aircraft management and charter operator and will be a strong HondaJet network partner," said Honda Aircraft President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. "Skyservice has an extensive footprint in major Canadian markets and shares Honda's commitment to provide the best customer experience, strengths we look for in any partnership."

Skyservice is one of Canada's largest aircraft management, maintenance and charter operator with facilities in Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary. The company offers comprehensive business aviation services including charter services, fixed base operations, maintenance, and aircraft management.

"For 26 years, our organization has maintained a strong commitment to service and building customer relationships," said Marshall Myles, president of Skyservice. "We are extremely excited to sell the best-in-class HondaJet in Canada."

The company has earned the Platinum ARG/US rating North America's most stringent aviation safety ranking for exceeding and maintaining the highest safety and operational standards, as well as the internationally recognized IS-BAO designation, the gold standard for business aircraft operations. Skyservice was founded in 1986 by Russell Payson. The company has 500 employees.

"Canada ranks fourth in the world for business jets and new business aircraft deliveries," said Byron Severson, Honda Aircraft Company vice president of sales. "It is an important market for Honda Aircraft, and today's agreement is a culmination of a thorough selection process to find the right partnership."

Honda Aircraft remains focused on a worldwide sales plan and strategy. In addition to Skyservice, there are nine HondaJet dealer representatives worldwide to provide sales and product support to customers. Each of these dealerships will be prepared for the HondaJet entry to service and will provide customers the quality of service expected from Honda. The company is currently evaluating future expansion of sales and support beyond North America and Europe.

Fujino added, "We will continue to review all regions and markets for the HondaJet introduction, as our ultimate goal is to sell and support this advanced aircraft worldwide."

For more information on Skyservice visit www.skyservice.com.

About HondaJet
HondaJet is the world's most advanced light business jet aircraft, with best-in-class advantages in performance, comfort, quality and efficiency. 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. This design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, allows for the roomiest cabin in its class, the largest baggage capacity, and a fully 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 next-generation all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality, and value.

About Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Company, Inc., was founded in 2006 though has its heritage in more than 20 years of ground-breaking aeronautical research and development. At Honda Aircraft's World Headquarters campus in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation, the company's associates work in more than 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art R&D, Manufacturing and Administration Headquarter buildings to develop, produce, market and support the HondaJet with HondaJet dealers. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motors is still alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's long-standing dreams to advance human mobility skyward.

For more information, visit www.hondajet.com.

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Note for media: access Honda Aircraft's media portal at https://hondajet.honda.com/news/index.aspx for high resolution images of the HondaJet.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Begins HondaJet Production; Highlights Program Progress at NBAA 2012

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 10:45:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company announced today that it has commenced production on the much anticipated HondaJet, the world's most advanced light jet. During a press conference at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting and convention in Orlando, Fla., the company also highlighted key testing milestones that have been successfully accomplished with the HondaJet moving closer to certification and delivery.

"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. "Commencing production is the most important milestone in the HondaJet program to date, with only the future Federal Aviation Administration Type Certification and first customer delivery ranking greater in significance."

Production start with steady progress
Honda Aircraft commenced production of the HondaJet and continues to make steady progress toward delivery of the first customer aircraft. The Honda Aircraft production facility represents Honda's expectation of high quality product delivery with lean activities designed to standardize production work and eliminate defects. The company has developed and implemented its own production process improvement device, focused on operator work instructions while on the assembly floor. Instructions are presented on a tablet device, allowing technicians to see a graphical interface that is easy to read and is specifically designed to the individual tasks. The device reduces the need for printed materials and ensures real-time change management on the floor.

The production facility will also employ an innovative, on-site paint mixing system designed to achieve optimum color while reducing paint thickness in a controlled environment. At the push of a button, this advanced system allows for multiple aircraft to be coated with a single batch of paint, maintaining color consistency. The system also pre-heats the paint, which results in a superior aesthetic quality.

Honda Aircraft has also implemented the Automatic Guided Cart (AGC). The AGC is similar to a mobile robot and is designed to pick up and deliver parts to the production facility's unique assembly areas. The AGC will allow for safe, on-demand material delivery and coordinated parts flow to production technicians.

Testing milestones achieved
Over the past year, Honda Aircraft has completed various flight, systems and structural tests including: crew seat crash tests, speedbrake testing, ultimate load tests, EASA windshield bird strike testing, wind tunnel icing tests, night lighting testing, etc.

The company recently completed the first in a series of remote testing to validate the HondaJet aircraft's performance under extreme temperatures. Hot-weather flight tests were conducted in Yuma, Ariz., and included critical case tests for both aircraft systems and infrastructure. Recent tests included:

Hot fuel testing – Fuel system operational tests were successfully conducted and demonstrated the HondaJet fuel system's ability to supply fuel to the engine during elevated temperatures.
Fuselage structure temperature validation – Static heat soak tests measured the environmental impact (e.g., air temperature and solar load) on the aircraft's fuselage and interior. The HondaJet completed a simulated taxi and takeoff, and the aircraft's exterior surface was examined to determine temperature profile.
Powerplant cooling and electrical generator cooling – Engine and electrical system tests were successfully conducted at critical accessory loads and temperature environment.

To assist in remote location testing of the HondaJet, a 42-foot, custom telemetry vehicle entered service in October. The mobile telemetry truck was designed to duplicate the telemetry capabilities at Honda Aircraft's world headquarters in Greensboro, N.C., and is a fully self-contained telemetry system used to monitor aircraft data during flight testing. The truck has six work stations for analysts to monitor real-time test data within a 200 nautical mile range of the aircraft and allows year-round operation at remote sites.

Test aircraft expansion
The company's fifth FAA-conforming aircraft recently completed power-on electrical testing. This aircraft is on schedule to be released to flight test early next year. Now in final assembly, it will be the first HondaJet to have a full production interior. An additional structural test aircraft, the company's sixth FAA-conforming aircraft, will also join the test fleet next year.

Honda Aircraft's test program currently includes four FAA-conforming HondaJet aircraft: three actively flying test aircraft and one ground test aircraft, which was exclusively used for structural testing and recently retired from the program after successfully completing ultimate load tests.

Established product support and customer service processes
For aircraft after-market support, the company recently broke ground on a new, 90,000-square-foot Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. The MRO will provide a 24/7 support center and can simultaneously service up to 12 HondaJet aircraft. The facility, slated for occupancy the second half of 2013, will complement the existing network of HondaJet dealers with all locations delivering the same customer service experience. This expansion will bring the company's total campus footprint to 600,000 square feet and more than 130 acres.

In an effort to increase efficiency, Honda Aircraft is committed to integrating sophisticated information technology systems throughout all areas of its business. As part of the effort to enhance customer support, a comprehensive software package specifically designed for aerospace product support will integrate Honda Aircraft inventory, service and other critical functions. Honda Aircraft’s customer service team and Component Control of San Diego, Calif., are working jointly to configure, test and implement Quantum Control to coincide with the MRO facility’s opening next year.

To facilitate pilot training as the HondaJet approaches entry into service, Honda Aircraft has partnered with FlightSafety® International, the world's leading aviation training organization. The simulator is in production and will be installed in the simulator bay at the Honda Aircraft world headquarters campus in Greensboro, N.C.

Recognized for pioneering aircraft innovation
In September, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) awarded its revered Award for Aircraft Design to Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. Fujino was recognized by the AIAA for pioneering the optimum HondaJet Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that reduces wave drag and increases drag divergence Mach number.

The HondaJet OTWEM configuration also maximizes aircraft cabin space, increases cruise fuel efficiency, and reduces interior sound and exterior noise. Other significant HondaJet innovations include a natural-laminar flow (NLF) wing and fuselage nose, and a composite fuselage. These innovations combined make the HondaJet the fastest, most spacious and most fuel efficient jet in its class.

"Honda is known for its methodical approach in engineering and processes," said Fujino. "To this end, our commitment to deliver the best possible product that will bring new value to aviation remains. We have taken the necessary time and effort with the HondaJet program to do it right and give our customers the finest product with the best ownership experience possible."

About HondaJet
HondaJet is the world's most advanced light business jet aircraft, with best-in-class advantages in performance, comfort, quality and efficiency. 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. OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in 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 next-generation all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality, and value.

For more information, visit www.hondajet.com.

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Note for media: access Honda Aircraft's media portal at https://hondajet.honda.com/news/Index.aspx for high resolution images of the HondaJet.

HondaJet: New Driving Simulator to Advance Honda's Research into Driver Distraction, Driver Behavior and Vehicle Safety

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 07:30:00 -0700

Honda R&D Americas, Inc. today joined with officials from The Ohio State University in commissioning the University's new Driving Simulator Laboratory, designed to support advanced research into issues of driver distraction and other factors impacting driver behavior and road safety.

The new laboratory was co-developed by Honda R&D Americas and The Ohio State University Office of Research and was funded in part by Honda R&D Americas, which will conduct research at the facility.

"This new simulator will help us further strengthen our local research capabilities to gain an even deeper understanding of our customers and to advance our ability to create even more safe, smart and intuitive Honda and Acura products," said Frank Paluch, senior vice president of Honda R&D America's Inc., located in nearby Raymond, Ohio. "The co-development of this new facility by Honda R&D and the University's Office of Research expands our partnership in new and important ways. Moreover, it presents both the University and Honda with the chance to conduct leading-edge research into the psychological components of the driving experience and its impact on issues such as driver distraction and overall vehicle safety."

The facility's main simulator features a full cab mounted to a six-degrees-of-freedom motion platform, and a 240-degree wrap-around projection screen with high-resolution, edge-blended visuals designed to simulate a wide variety of driving situations with a high degree of realism. A second simulator is optimized for the testing of production vehicles.

The new laboratory is designed to enable next-generation research into driver behavior. Biometric sensors measure factors such as blood pressure, heart rate, eye movement and galvanic skin response, along with respiration, heart and blink rates, allowing Honda researchers to gauge the psychological and physiological state of the driver in varying conditions.

"This is something of a different approach to understanding, at a deeper level, the driver's state and how people interact with the vehicle," said Steven Feit, chief engineer at Honda R&D Americas, who led Honda's effort in the development of the laboratory. "We are looking at factors beyond the conventional aspects of the driver-vehicle interface to truly understand the psychological and cognitive aspects of driver behavior."

About the Honda-OSU Partnership
Honda's partnership with The Ohio State University encompasses a broad range of initiatives between Honda's Ohio-based R&D and manufacturing operations and the University. A key aspect of the partnership is a more-than- $40 million endowment generated through the operation of the Transportation Research Center that generates approximately $2.3 million in funding each year for the University.

One area of collaboration is the Honda/OSU Mobility Innovation Exchange (MIX), a unique collaborative research initiative between Honda R&D Americas, Inc. and the University. Established in 2010 and housed in the University's College of Engineering, MIX brings together Honda researchers and OSU faculty and students in mechanical, materials and other engineering disciplines.

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HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Breaks Ground on New Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Facility

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 09:17:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today announced another major milestone by breaking ground on a new Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul facility (MRO) located at the company's world headquarters at the Piedmont Triad International Airport. The approximately 90,000 square foot building will be completed next year, with occupancy slated by the second half of 2013, prior to the HondaJet aircraft's entry into service.

Honda Aircraft's MRO facility will complement the existing network of HondaJet dealers, with all locations delivering the same customer service experience. This new Honda Aircraft MRO facility includes a 24/7 support center to facilitate maintenance for up to 12 aircraft simultaneously. There will be several back shops for composite and sheet metal structures, avionics and interiors; and a customer area with a large pilot's lounge, individual work rooms with conference space, and a flight planning room conveniently situated near the aircraft ramp side entrance.

Anthony Piazza, vice president of Administration for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. said, "I stood near this site when Honda Aircraft Company broke ground on the world headquarters in 2007, and it's a wonderful feeling to witness the impressive expansion of Honda Aircraft facilities, and take part in the ground breaking of the new MRO that will be used to service and maintain the HondaJet fleet."

Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO Michimasa Fujino said, "We continue to make great strides as our momentum builds toward important milestones from type certification to our most important goal of delivering the HondaJet to customers around the world. This new facility that we celebrate today will play a critical role in supporting and maintaining the HondaJet fleet. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the community and local officials who support this major project."

Site preparation for the US$20 million state-of-the-art MRO began in February 2012, on a 54-acre extension to Honda Aircraft's world headquarters campus that is home to a state-of-the-art R&D, production and headquarter buildings encompassing over one-half million square feet of space on more than 130 acres. With the addition of the new MRO, Honda Aircraft's total capital investment for construction in the area exceeds US$120 million.

Fujino said, "It is my commitment to build the best Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul facility to serve the HondaJet customer."

The MRO facility will also house the Product Support Group whose mission is to support the customer and aircraft after delivery, and administer HondaJet Warranty and Service Plans. The MRO will have a 4,000 sq. ft. environmentally controlled spare parts warehouse.

About HondaJet
HondaJet is the most advanced light business jet aircraft, with best-in-class advantages in performance, comfort, quality and efficiency. The HondaJet is the fastest, highest-flying, most quiet and most fuel efficient in its class. The HondaJet incorporates many technological innovations in aviation design, including a unique over-the-wing engine-mount configuration that dramatically improves performance and fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag. This airframe design reduces cabin noise and ground-detected noise when overhead and allows for a more spacious cabin and greater cargo capacity. The HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines, and is equipped with the most advanced glass flight deck available in any light business jet, a Honda-customized Garmin® G3000 next-generation all-glass avionics system with a class-leading layout of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, and value.

www.hondajet.com

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HondaJet: AIAA Bestows 2012 Aircraft Design Award on HondaJet Design

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 04:00:00 -0700

HondaJet Designer, Michimasa Fujino, was presented the 2012 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Aircraft Design Award. Fujino is president and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Greensboro, N.C., which produces and sells the HondaJet, an advanced light jet aircraft that delivers class-leading performance, fuel efficiency, comfort and quality. The AIAA Aircraft Design Award is considered the most prestigious recognition for aircraft designers in the world.

Fujino received the award on Sept. 18th at a luncheon held as part of the 12th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration and Operations (ATIO) Conference and the 14th AIAA/ISSMO Multidisciplinary Analysis and Optimization Conference, running Sept. 17 – 19 at the Hyatt Regency, Indianapolis, Ind.

The AIAA Aircraft Design Award honors a design engineer or team for the conception, definition or development of an original concept, or career contributions leading to significant advancement in aircraft design or design technology. According to the AIAA, Fujino is being recognized for "pioneering the unique optimum Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that reduces wave drag and increases drag divergence Mach number. This unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount configuration significantly increases cruise efficiency and, at the same time, maximizes cabin space without increasing the size of the aircraft." During development of the HondaJet, Fujino published several technical papers on theoretical design methods and experimental results to prove this unique design concept. He also contributed to AIAA by presenting several lectures on aircraft design and development at universities and industry conferences.

Fujino said, "The AIAA aircraft design award is the highest honor, and I am honored by this recognition. I am so glad that HondaJet's unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount technology is acknowledged as a significant technological advancement for aircraft design. On behalf of the entire HondaJet team, I would like to express our appreciation to everyone who supports this HondaJet project as we continue our endeavor to deliver the world's most advanced light jet."

Past recipients of the award include Joseph Sutter for the Boeing 747, Harry Hillaker for the F-16, Burt Rutan for the Voyager, and Leland Nicolai for AGM-129/ACM.

Optimum OTWEM configuration reduces wave drag on the wings, while increasing the wing's drag divergence Mach number, thus increasing the aircraft's performance and fuel efficiency. Also, by eliminating the engine support structure from the fuselage, it is possible to maximize cabin and luggage space without increasing the size of the aircraft. By employing this unique technology, the HondaJet offers the best performance and comfort in its class.

Fujino added, "As a leading mobility company, Honda will continue to invest in future innovations and contribute to the evolution of advanced technologies. Our goal is to be a company that society wants to exist. The development of the HondaJet, and its innovative Over-The-Wing Engine Mount design, has been one of those revolutionary engineering processes at Honda."

With 35,000 members, AIAA is the world's largest technical society devoted to the progress of engineering and science in aviation, space and defense.

About Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Company, Inc., was founded in 2006 though has its heritage in more than 20 years of ground-breaking aeronautical research and development. At Honda Aircraft's World Headquarters campus in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation, the company's associates work in more than 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art R&D, Manufacturing and Administration Headquarters buildings to develop, produce, market and support the HondaJet with HondaJet dealers. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is still alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's long-standing dreams to advance human mobility skyward.

www.hondajet.com

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HondaJet: Fourth FAA-Conforming HondaJet Achieves Its First Flight

Sun, 13 May 2012 04:00:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today announced that its fourth conforming HondaJet aircraft, referred to as "F3," successfully completed its first flight last week on May 4, 2012. This first flight milestone was a key highlight amongst many, in an overall program update the company reported in a briefing at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exposition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, underscoring the HondaJet's progress and momentum toward certification.

The F3 aircraft, painted in a unique and striking yellow and white signature HondaJet paint scheme, began its first flight with engine startup at 10:40 am Eastern Time and lift-off at 10:57 am, on May 4, 2012, from Honda Aircraft Company's world headquarters at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Stefan Johansson, pilot-in-command, and Howard Judd, co-pilot, completed several checks during the flight, including: takeoff and climb; landing gear and flap operations; aircraft handling; air data system checks; and an Instrument Landing System approach using the flight director. Overall, the aircraft performed smoothly during its 74-minute flight, according to the pilots and telemetry teams, flying as high as 11,500 feet and as fast as 313 Knots True Air Speed (KTAS).

"The first flight of F3 shows the steady advancement on our course toward delivering to our customers an aircraft that offers not only superior performance, efficiency and comfort, but also superior quality," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. "We continue to see refinement in reliability and quality of our aircraft. We are successfully establishing our manufacturing foundation and process that contribute to creating high quality product, as well as to a great flying performance and experience, as our pilots report from just our first week of flying F3."

Honda Aircraft has now completed four FAA-conforming aircraft. Three of these aircraft are in its flight test fleet, plus one additional aircraft is in its structural ground test program. Earlier FAA-conforming HondaJet flight test aircraft have already achieved key benchmarks that meet or exceed the aircraft's designed performance goals of a maximum speed of 420 KTAS, maximum cruise altitude of 43,000 feet, climb rate of 3,990 feet per minute, and more.

The F3 aircraft is to be used primarily for avionics and electrical system flight testing elements within the HondaJet certification program. The aircraft has begun its test mission work in earnest.

"With regard to our new color choice for F3, yellow may be unconventional for a business jet, but the HondaJet is a new generation, advanced light jet with high performance and efficiency." continued Fujino. "HondaJet represents sportiness with high efficiency, so my choice of this special yellow for F3 expresses Honda's passion for, what we call, our ‘sports car in the sky.'"

www.hondajet.com

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HondaJet: HondaJet Product, Program and Entry-Into-Service News at EBACE

Sun, 13 May 2012 04:00:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today made several announcements during its media briefing at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exposition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, that underscore progress and momentum toward certification of the HondaJet light business jet.

Honda Aircraft announced and demonstrated key new product enhancements in the HondaJet's avionics and cabin management systems. The company announced the first flight of its fourth conforming flight test aircraft and reviewed progress in structural testing and system testing, such as landing gear drop testing and icing wind tunnel testing, for certification. The company also shared progress in preparing for the aircraft's entry into service with news regarding the HondaJet flight training and groundwork on its new Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) 54-acre site.

"Honda Aircraft is advancing toward certifying the HondaJet and delivering the aircraft to customers," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. "We are committed to deliver the world's most advanced light jet to our customers. We continuously improve product details to exceed customers' expectations, as today's product enhancements exemplify. Plus our program milestones in testing and manufacturing, and our progress in preparing for entry into service, illustrate Honda's commitment to provide an unsurpassed customer ownership experience."

New Product Enhancements
Honda Aircraft is the first manufacturer to announce and demonstrate plans for a new 40/60 display configuration on the Garmin® G3000 Primary Flight Displays for the HondaJet. This enhancement provides pilots a more user-friendly visual scan of additional flight information in a concise format that contributes to improved situational awareness and safety. The pilot or co-pilot can select and see more information within a tile that uses 40% of the width of each of the 14-inch wide, high-resolution primary flight displays.

Honda Aircraft unveiled plans for a new Cabin Management System (CMS) and updated production aircraft interior. The new CMS will enable passengers to use a wireless mobile device, such as a tablet or smartphone, to view real time flight information and to control the HondaJet cabin's lighting, temperature, music, and window shades for enhanced comfort and productivity.

The updated HondaJet fuselage model, on display at EBACE this week, uses production components, and showcases the new 40/60 primary flight display, the new CMS, and the latest HondaJet seating, cockpit and cabin interior appointments.

Recent Certification Program Milestones
Honda Aircraft announced the first flight of its fourth FAA-conforming HondaJet at today's briefing, as noted in a related press release. The company also announced other important milestones in its certification and manufacturing program.
Honda Aircraft is conducting several FAA structural tests and has passed the ultimate load structural testing with the HondaJet's conforming structural test aircraft.

This ultimate load structural test placed loads of up to 150% of design limit load on the entire aircraft with various conditions. The company also has conducted several system tests and completed major tests in areas such as landing gear drop certification testing. It also has conducted wind tunnel icing test for verification of the HondaJet's ice protection system.

Progress in Preparation for Entry into Service
Honda Aircraft announced that manufacturing began for the first full motion, Level D HondaJet flight simulator at FlightSafety® International's production facility near Tulsa, Oklahoma. This first simulator will be based at the HondaJet Training Center at Honda Aircraft headquarters campus in Greensboro, North Carolina, in the first half of 2013, and will play a vital role in HondaJet pilot training. FlightSafety International is the official HondaJet pilot training and maintenance training provider.

"The design and manufacture of the new HondaJet full flight simulator is underway," said Bruce Whitman, President & CEO, FlightSafety International. "We appreciate and value our close working relationship with Honda and together look forward to providing training in conjunction with aircraft deliveries."

Honda Aircraft also unveiled renderings and announced it has begun the process to build the new $20 million state-of-the-art service center (Maintenance Repair Overhaul facility) at its world headquarters campus at Greensboro, North Carolina. Site preparation, began in February 2012 on the 54-acre extension to Honda Aircraft's now 133-acre campus and continues in earnest. Groundbreaking for construction is on track for this summer, with completion of the building in summer 2013, prior to the aircraft's entry into service.

www.hondajet.com

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HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Achieves First Flight of Third FAA-Conforming HondaJet and Announces Milestone on Remaining Test Fleet

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:20:00 -0800

Honda Aircraft Company today announced on the one-year anniversary of flight testing of its first FAA design-conforming HondaJet aircraft, that its third conforming aircraft, referred to as "F2," joined flight test and has been conducting extensive flight testing since its first flight on Nov. 18, 2011. This milestone marks important progress toward the HondaJet's certification.

The F2 aircraft's first flight test began with engine startup at 2:04pm Eastern Time and lift-off at 2:21, on Nov. 18, 2011, from Honda Aircraft Company's world headquarters at Greensboro's Piedmont Triad International Airport.

The team completed a variety of checks in this first flight, including: takeoff and climb; landing gear operation; flap operations; aircraft handling; air data system checks with instrumentation; and an Instrument Landing System approach using the flight director. Overall, the aircraft performed quite well, according to the pilots and telemetry teams. Since this first flight, Honda Aircraft has expanded F2's performance envelope as the aircraft has begun its test mission work in earnest.

"The first flight of a flight test aircraft is an important milestone for an aircraft certification program, and the fact that we achieved F2's first flight shortly after receiving its engines illustrates our team's preparation and readiness," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. "F2's first flight was the result of extensive planning, hard work and execution by many teams and individuals across our organization and our supply chain partner network. The aircraft's performance is as expected and flying in the aircraft is exhilarating."

The first FAA-conforming HondaJet, F1, which flew for the first time on Dec. 20, 2010, has already achieved key benchmarks that meet or exceed the aircraft's designed performance goals. In March, Honda Aircraft reported the aircraft achieved a maximum speed of 425 KTAS (489 mph) at 30,000 feet, surpassing the company's performance commitment of 420 KTAS. The aircraft has since achieved a climb rate of 4,000 feet per minute, beating its target of 3,990 FPM, and a maximum operating altitude of 43,000 feet.

"While the flight test aircraft are highly visible and vital to our certification program, our structural test aircraft also are just as essential to Honda Aircraft's certification program," continued Mr. Fujino. "In 2011, we made major progress on FAA structural component tests and entire aircraft structural tests with the second conforming aircraft, ST1, and we successfully completed all limit load tests for the aircraft structure."

Honda Aircraft plans to begin flying two additional flight test aircraft, F3 and F4, in 2012. The company also plans to begin structural testing with additional structural test aircraft in 2012.

About Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motors Inc., was founded in 2006 though has its heritage in more than 20 years of ground-breaking aeronautical research and development. At Honda Aircraft's World Headquarters campus in North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation, the company's associates work in more than 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art R&D, Manufacturing and Administration Headquarter buildings to develop, produce, market and support the HondaJet with HondaJet dealers. The challenging spirit upon which Mr. Soichiro Honda founded Honda Motors is still alive today as Honda Aircraft fulfills one of Honda's long-standing dreams to advance human mobility skyward.

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Connect to Honda:
HondaJet: http://www.hondajet.com
Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (for media only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda in America: http://www.hondainamerica.com
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/americanhonda
Honda on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/honda
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web Site: http://www.honda.com

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company to Build New HondaJet Aircraft Maintenance Facility in Greensboro, North Carolina

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:15:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, along with senior officials from the State of North Carolina and the Greensboro Economic Development Alliance, today announced Honda's selection of Greensboro, North Carolina, as the location for its new HondaJet Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. The company will invest an additional $20 million to build the new MRO facility, bringing its total capital investment for construction of its North Carolina facilities to more than $120 million.

Honda Aircraft made the announcement at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Convention, the world's largest business aviation annual event, held this year in Las Vegas, while North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue and Triad area officials made a simultaneous announcement in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Honda Aircraft's MRO facility will provide services for HondaJet owners that complement the services they receive at facilities across its HondaJet dealer network in North America and Europe. These services include heavy maintenance services, such as extensive repair or overhaul work best provided by the aircraft OEM. This MRO plan demonstrates Honda Aircraft's focus on providing an unsurpassed ownership service experience for HondaJet customers from the very first customer delivery.

"We intend to offer HondaJet customers an overall ownership experience that is second to none in business aviation and one that is commensurate with all the best attributes of Honda," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company.

The selection of North Carolina also underscores Honda's continued, significant investment in the HondaJet program, and its commitment to the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina.

"After a rigorous evaluation of various site alternatives, we concluded that we could best serve our customers and complement HondaJet dealer service facilities by placing our MRO facility here in North Carolina, where we are delighted to begin writing this next chapter of our growth," said Fujino. "This will also reinforce Honda's contribution and support to continue developing the aviation and aerospace cluster in the Piedmont Triad Region."

Honda Aircraft will expand its already substantial presence at the Greensboro Piedmont Triad Airport (PTI) with this new MRO facility. The MRO facility will be an expansion of the company's World Headquarters campus, where its state-of-the-art R&D, Manufacturing and Headquarter buildings today encompass more than 500,000 square feet of space on approximately 80 acres.

"Honda's decision to expand their Greensboro facility validates the strength and vitality of our aviation cluster, and their plan to invest an additional $80 million and create 419 more high-paying jobs demonstrates Honda's commitment to our community and to the entire State of North Carolina," said Dan Lynch, President of the Greensboro Economic Development Alliance. "We have 180 aerospace companies in the state employing more than 9,500 workers, but Honda Aircraft Company is the crown jewel."

"My top priority is creating jobs and it's clear that we've got momentum when global companies like Honda Aircraft Company decide to expand operations in North Carolina," said Gov. Perdue. "North Carolina is attractive to companies because of our skilled workforce and excellent business climate. This will enhance our aerospace cluster in the Triad."

"No matter where I go in North Carolina, the issue everyone talks to me about is jobs," commented U.S. Senator Kay Hagan. "That is why today's announcement is so important for North Carolina and for Greensboro. I am thrilled that Honda Aircraft will be bringing an additional 400-plus high-paying jobs to Greensboro."

Honda Aircraft has leased 54 additional acres at PTI Airport. The new MRO facility will make use of 20 of these acres. With current and future expansion, Honda Aircraft is leasing more than 130 acres at PTI Airport.

Design of the MRO facility, which is expected to encompass more than 80,000 square feet, will be finalized in the first quarter of 2012, with construction scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2012, and occupancy to begin in the first half of 2013. This timing supports the HondaJet's scheduled certification and entry into service in mid-2013.

HondaJet: FAA-Conforming HondaJet Reaches Maximum Operating Altitude of 43,000 Ft.

Mon, 16 May 2011 22:57:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced at the annual European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, that it has successfully completed additional milestone flight tests with its FAA-conforming HondaJet, including the achievement of a maximum operating altitude of 43,000 ft. This accomplishment follows soon after Honda's advanced light business jet recorded a maximum speed of 425KTAS (489 mph) during flight testing at the company's Greensboro, North Carolina, world headquarters facility.

The 43,000 ft. mark – reached on April 27, 2011 – confirms the company's maximum-operating-altitude performance commitment to customers for the FAA-conforming HondaJet. In addition, the aircraft has achieved a climb rate of 3,990 ft./min., confirming another important performance parameter for the delivery aircraft.

"We are very encouraged by the achievement of these important performance milestones at this early phase of the HondaJet flight test program," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO. "Our flight test data indicate that the aircraft is performing as expected, and our team continues to work hard to realize additional performance milestones as we move forward."

The first FAA-conforming HondaJet (F1), which achieved first flight on December 20, 2010, will soon be joined by additional conforming aircraft to supplement the company's certification efforts. A second conforming aircraft (ST1) already has been completed and undergone extensive structural testing under various load conditions to ensure conformity with all certification requirements. Furthermore, Power-On testing has been completed successfully on a third conforming aircraft (F2) that will be used for flight testing. Honda is nearing completion of function testing on this aircraft, which is scheduled to take flight this summer.

A fourth conforming aircraft (F3), to be used for additional flight testing, has progressed through the major assemblies consolidation phase and is now in the early stages of systems installation. A fifth conforming aircraft (ST2) also is planned to be completed in early 2012 to support additional stress and extensive fatigue testing. Concurrent with the assembly of conforming aircraft, Honda continues to conduct numerous component qualification tests for each aircraft system to support the certification program.

"In order to maximize the effectiveness of our flight test program and to support an accelerated certification process, we will add a sixth conforming aircraft (F4) to our certification fleet," said Fujino. "This test aircraft will take flight in spring 2012 and will support cabin systems testing, as well as functions and reliability testing. With a total of six aircraft planned to support the certification process, we believe we will have optimal resources to meet both our flight test program needs and our certification schedule.

As Honda progresses through the certification program, the company is focused simultaneously on the process of equipping and manning its new HondaJet production facility, which was recently completed on the company's Greensboro campus. Pre-production planning and preparations are in progress as equipment and personnel begin to move into the facility. Training of production staff will soon be underway to support the HondaJet production ramp-up beginning in 2012.

The 263,400 ft² HondaJet production facility integrates under one roof all aspects of assembly, painting, completion, inspection and flight testing of delivery aircraft. This unique approach to production will provide Honda with a distinct advantage within the industry by allowing the company to create the highest quality aircraft possible within a totally integrated assembly and testing environment.

About HondaJet

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd., has amassed orders for well over 100 HondaJet advanced light business jets. Scheduled for first delivery in the third quarter of 2012, the $4.5 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency.

The HondaJet incorporates many innovative technological advances in aviation design, including a unique over-the-wing engine-mount configuration that dramatically improves aircraft performance and fuel efficiency by significantly reducing aerodynamic drag in flight. This innovative approach to airframe design also lowers ground-detected noise when overhead and allows for a more spacious cabin and greater cargo capacity. The HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines.

The production HondaJet flight deck features a Honda-customized Garmin^® G3000 next-generation all-glass avionics system incorporating a class-leading layout with three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers for overall avionics control and flight plan entries. The HondaJet Avionics Suite is the most advanced glass flight deck available in any light business jet and provides state-of-the-art integrated avionics functionality featuring split-screen MFD capability, satellite weather, graphical synoptics, digital audio, and optional Synthetic Vision.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: FAA-Conforming HondaJet Achieves Maximum Speed

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 06:58:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced that the first FAA-conforming HondaJet light business jet has achieved a maximum speed of 425 KTAS (489 mph) at 30,000 ft. and a maximum Mach number of 0.72 above 30,000 ft. This achievement surpasses the company's performance commitment of 420 KTAS for the production HondaJet.

The FAA-conforming HondaJet's maximum speed of 425 KTAS was recorded on March 11, 2011.

"We are extremely pleased with the strong performance of the FAA-conforming HondaJet early in the flight test program," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO. "Our flight tests indicate the aircraft is handling and performing as expected, with excellent control harmony and stability. The HondaJet's unique over-the-wing engine mount configuration and natural laminar-flow leading edge and fuselage nose designs significantly reduce drag and greatly contribute to such outstanding performance. In addition, the HondaJet's HF120 engines are exhibiting carefree handling of thrust and are supporting top-level performance and efficiency."

Honda will continue a rigorous series of in-flight mechanical, systems and handling tests on the FAA-conforming aircraft. Flight testing of the conforming HondaJet is taking place at Honda Aircraft Company's world headquarters facility in Greensboro, NC.

To support its flight test program, Honda has completed its second FAA-conforming aircraft, which already has undergone numerous structural tests. Mating of the major components of the company's third conforming aircraft – to be used for mechanical systems flight testing – has been completed, and systems installation is now well underway on this aircraft. A fourth conforming flight test aircraft is in the final stages of mating of major assemblies and will soon enter the systems installation phase of completion. A fifth conforming aircraft also is scheduled to support additional structural testing.

While flight testing and the build of FAA-conforming aircraft continue, construction of the HondaJet production facility on the company's Greensboro campus nears completion. Honda soon will take occupancy of the 263,400 ft² production facility and begin the process of moving equipment and personnel into the facility and undertaking pre-production preparations and training necessary to support HondaJet production ramp-up beginning in 2012.

The production HondaJet flight deck features a Honda-customized Garmin^® G3000 next-generation all-glass avionics system incorporating a class-leading layout with three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers for overall avionics control and flight plan entries. The HondaJet Avionics Suite is the most advanced glass flight deck available in any light business jet and provides state-of-the-art integrated avionics functionality featuring split screen MFD capability, satellite weather, graphical synoptics, digital audio, and optional Synthetic Vision.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

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HondaJet: Honda Premieres "The Undying Dream" Short-Film Documentary at 2011 Sundance Film Festival

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 08:00:00 -0800

As part of the "DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE" Documentary Series, today Honda debuted its eighth short-film documentary, "The Undying Dream," at the Sundance Film Festival. Honda's more than 844,000 Facebook fans, as well as its YouTube channel viewers, will also get a sneak peek of "The Undying Dream" today.

"‘The Undying Dream' is about finding your unique strengths and talents and having the passion and resilience to commit to your calling," said Barbara Ponce, manager of corporate advertising for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Sundance Film Festival is the ideal venue to present Honda's new film, as the Sundance Institute and Honda both encourage an independent spirit, taking risks to bring forth bold ideas, and realizing the power of your own dreams in the process."

Directed by Ondi Timoner, the only filmmaker to twice win the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, with producers @radical.media, "The Undying Dream" brings to life a Honda corporate principle — the challenging spirit. This spirit is demonstrated in Honda's quest to pursue and achieve impossible dreams, which has led to the creation of innovative products that enhance human mobility and advance environmental consciousness.

"For our newest film, ‘The Undying Dream,' we had the opportunity to interview some truly amazing and inspirational people — Laird Hamilton, professional surfer; Ashley Fiolek, pro Motocross racer; Jeremy McGrath, Supercross champion; Takanobu Ito, president and CEO, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and other Honda associates — who discuss their passion for achieving their dreams while realizing there's always a new goal coming up right behind it," said writer and producer Todd Carey at RPA, Honda's longstanding advertising agency of record.

"The Undying Dream" will screen at the "Honda Power of Dreams Experience," an interactive venue showcasing unique Honda products highlighting innovation, environmental leadership and advanced technology. In the exhibit, Honda will conduct demonstrations of the world's most advanced humanoid robot, ASIMO, as well as display some of the company's innovative products, such as the Honda FCX Clarity, a cutaway of the Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid, a 12-foot scale model of the HondaJet, and Honda motorcycle products, including an interactive motorcycle rider safety and training simulator. The "Honda Power of Dreams Experience" is open to the public free of charge Fri., Jan. 21, through Wed., Jan. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. "The Undying Dream" will be shown every hour on the half hour starting at 10:30 a.m.

Beyond the Sundance Film Festival, "The Undying Dream" will be supported in-theater and online. Spots of either 90 or 30 seconds will be featured on the YouTube masthead and full-episode players. The full-length film and corresponding 90-second trailer will also air on TiVo.

Launched in January 2009, the "DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE" Documentary Series is intended to speak to both the hearts and minds of consumers by revealing stories of Honda's corporate philosophy at work through an intimate multimedia, interactive website.

The campaign, developed by RPA, targets 25- to 49-year-old adults with a youthful spirit, who are comfortable with technology, who value authenticity, and who are drawn to brands they can relate to, connect with, or admire.

Credits

Film

Chief Creative Officer: David Smith
Writers: Todd Carey, Curt Johnson
Agency Senior Producer: Isadora Chesler
Executive Producers: Barbara Ponce, Gary Paticoff, Jon Kamen, Frank Scherma, Frank Stiefel, Justin Wilkes
Production Company: @radical.media
Producers: Liz Bradley, Todd Carey, Curt Johnson
Director: Ondi Timoner
DP/Lighting/Cameraman: Andrij Parekh
Editor: Ting Poo/Outpost Digital
Original Soundtrack: Q Department.
Post Production: Method Studios, CD/Flame Artist: Claus Hansen
Telecine: Co3, Artist: Siggy Ferstl
Graphic Designer: Dave Dimeola
Photographer: Davi Russo

Interactive
Chief Creative Officer: David Smith
Executive Producer, Content: Gary Paticoff
Senior Producer, Content: Isadora Chesler
Creative Director/Art: Curt Johnson
Associate Creative Director/Copy: Todd Carey
Senior Art Director/Art: David Mesfin
Senior Copywriter: Brenna Hajek
User Experience Lead: Alex Yra
Technology Director: Scott Westerfield
Technologist/Flash: Jeff Siegal

About Honda
As a company devoted to the advancement of human mobility, Honda's innovative research and development efforts during the past decade have yielded such diverse outcomes as humanoid robotics, walking assist devices, HondaJet, fuel cell electric vehicle technology, thin film solar cells, increased rice crop yields and functional nano-materials – in addition to the design and development of automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment products. Based on its belief in the value of technology to address the needs of society, it is Honda's mission to develop products that anticipate and satisfy the evolving needs of its customers while meeting society's demand for cleaner, safer, more efficient and sustainable means of transportation and human mobility.

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news

Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Media Only):
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/americanhonda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web Site: http://www.honda.com

About RPA
RPA, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., is a leading independent advertising agency. RPA builds momentum for brands by offering its clients truly integrated campaigns that resonate throughout its disciplines, which include traditional advertising, interactive, and direct and event marketing. RPA's client list includes American Honda, both the Honda and Acura brands, California Department of Public Health, La-Z-Boy, Farmers Insurance Group, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Luxor Hotel and Casino, and Excalibur Hotel & Casino, and it is the media planning and buying agency for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Lenox Financial Mortgage. For more information, visit http://www.rpa.com.

About @radical.media
@radical.media is a global transmedia company that creates some of the world's most innovative content. The company produces and distributes television, feature films, commercials, music programming, digital content and design. @radical.media has produced award-winning projects, including the Academy Award®-winning documentaryThe Fog of War; the Grammy Award®-winningConcert for George; the Independent Spirit Award-winningMetallica: Some Kind of Monster; the pilot episode of the Emmy® and Golden Globe®winning seriesMad Men; the Emmy®-winning10 Days That Unexpectedly Changed Americafor the History Channel; the critically acclaimed seriesIconoclastsfor the Sundance Channel; and more recently,Master Class,for Oprah's new channel OWN, and the documentarySummit on the Summitfor MTV.The company is currently in production on programs for HBO, MTV, Discovery and OWN. www.radicalmedia.com

HondaJet: Honda Brings the "Power of Dreams Experience" to Sundance Film Festival 2011

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 -0800

For the first time, Honda is creating a "Power of Dreams Experience" exhibit at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. The interactive venue will showcase unique Honda products highlighting innovation, environmental leadership and advanced technology. Festival attendees and local residents will have the opportunity to visit the "Honda Power of Dreams Experience" for six days, Fri., Jan. 21, through Wed., Jan. 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 268 Main Street, Park City, Utah. The venue is open to the public free of charge.

The "Honda Power of Dreams Experience" will feature live 10-minute demonstrations of the world's most advanced humanoid robot, ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility). Designed to someday assist people in their homes, ASIMO is the culmination of more than two decades of research and development by Honda engineers. ASIMO demonstrations will take place hourly starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m.

Other Honda products on display inside Honda's Main Street location include the Honda FCX Clarity, the world's most advanced fuel cell electric vehicle; a cutaway of the Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid, the first hybrid with a 6-speed manual transmission; a 12-foot scale model of the HondaJet, Honda's first advanced light business jet; and Honda motorcycle products, including a Honda Gold Wing with the industry's first motorcycle airbag, a Honda CBR250R entry-level motorcycle, a Honda PCX mid-size scooter and an interactive motorcycle rider safety and training simulator.

In the exhibit, Honda will also premiere "The Undying Dream," the eighth and newest film in its popular "DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE" Documentary Series. "The Undying Dream" features Big Wave professional surfer Laird Hamilton, along with motorcycle racers and Honda associates (employees) sharing stories about what happens when a dream takes hold of you and drives you to succeed. "The Undying Dream" was directed by Sundance Film Festival two-time Grand Jury Prize Winner, Ondi Timoner (Cool It, We Live in Public, Join Us, Dig!). The film will screen at the Honda Power of Dreams venue every hour on the half hour.

Honda has been a supporter of the Sundance Institute and an official sponsor of the Sundance Film Festival for three years. Honda is also the exclusive sponsor of Sundance Channel's "Interview" program at the Honda Power of Dreams Studio at the Sundance Film Festival. This program will feature talent from the 2011 Sundance Film Festival selections and will run on Sundance Channel, online and via Video on Demand.

In addition, Honda is sponsoring a Sundance Institute video vignette that highlights the work of the Sundance Institute Labs in supporting independent filmmaking. The vignette will premiere at an official Dramatic Competition film premiere during the opening weekend of Sundance and will rotate prior to every Dramatic Film screening at the Sundance Film Festival. The vignette also will run on Sundance Channel, online and via Video on Demand.

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Media Only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/americanhonda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web Site: http://www.honda.com

Sundance Institute
Sundance Institute is a global nonprofit organization founded by Robert Redford in 1981. Through its artistic development programs for directors, screenwriters, producers, composers and playwrights, the Institute seeks to discover and support independent film and theatre artists from the United States and around the world, and to introduce audiences to their new work. The Institute promotes independent storytelling to inform, inspire, and unite diverse populations around the globe. Internationally recognized for its annual Sundance Film Festival, Sundance Institute has nurtured such projects as Born into Brothels, Trouble the Water, Son of Babylon, Amreeka, An Inconvenient Truth, Spring Awakening, Light in the Piazza and Angels in America. www.sundance.org

HondaJet: Honda Achieves First Flight of FAA-Conforming HondaJet

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 06:59:00 -0800

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced that it has successfully completed the first flight of its FAA-conforming HondaJet advanced light business jet. The event is a significant step in Honda's aerospace program leading to delivery of aircraft in 2012.

The first conforming HondaJet lifted off yesterday, December 20, 2010, at 15:31 EST from Honda Aircraft Company's world headquarters facility at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The HondaJet remained aloft for 51 minutes, during which time the aircraft's flight characteristics and performance were analyzed and systems checks were conducted. Various test data gathered during the flight were transmitted real-time to Honda's flight test telemetry operations base within the company's world headquarters facility.

"This is a very important milestone for the HondaJet program," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO. "This aircraft was assembled and tested under strict FAA certification processes, and we are very pleased to have achieved this successful first flight. Our team has worked extremely hard to reach this critical step in the HondaJet program, and these results reflect Honda's focus and determination to develop a class-leading aircraft."

"We are very encouraged by our initial review of the flight data, which indicates the conforming HondaJet performed as expected. As we move forward, we will continue to focus all of our efforts and energy to deliver to our customers the most advanced light business jet yet created," said Fujino.

To support the company's certification program, Honda has completed its second FAA-conforming aircraft, which already has undergone numerous structural tests required for commencement of certification flight testing. Honda also has completed mating of main assemblies for its third FAA-conforming aircraft, which is now in the systems installation phase of completion. This third conforming aircraft, to be used mainly for mechanical systems flight testing, is scheduled to be completed in early 2011. A total of five FAA-conforming aircraft, including one additional flight test aircraft and one additional structural test aircraft, are planned to support the HondaJet certification program.

While Honda enters the flight test program with its conforming HondaJet, the company also nears completion of its aircraft production facility on its Greensboro campus. The 266,000 ft2 HondaJet production facility is scheduled for completion in early 2011, with the final phase of interior build-out now underway. Upon completion of the production facility, Honda will begin the process of moving equipment and personnel into the facility and undertaking pre-production preparations and training necessary to support HondaJet production ramp-up beginning in 2012.

About HondaJet
Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd., has amassed orders for well over 100 HondaJet advanced light business jets. Scheduled for first delivery in the third quarter of 2012, the $4.5 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency. The HondaJet proof-of-concept aircraft has accumulated more than 500 flight test hours and attained both a top speed of 420 knots (483 mph) and a maximum altitude of 43,000 ft. in flight testing.

The production HondaJet flight deck features a Honda-customized Garmin® G3000 next-generation all-glass avionics system incorporating a class-leading layout with three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers for overall avionics control and flight plan entries. The HondaJet Avionics Suite is the most advanced glass flight deck available in any light business jet and provides state-of-the-art integrated avionics functionality featuring split screen MFD capability, satellite weather, graphical synoptics, digital audio, and optional Synthetic Vision.
Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Press Only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/americanhonda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web site: http://www.honda.com

# # #

HondaJet: HondaJet Program Update Released at 2010 NBAA

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:16:56 -0700

- Ground function testing underway on first conforming flight test aircraft
- Static stress testing in progress on second conforming aircraft
- Third conforming flight test aircraft in production
- Production cockpit and cabin released

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today released at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention an update to its HondaJet advanced light jet program, including the announcement of ground testing underway on its first conforming flight test aircraft and static structural stress testing in progress on its second conforming aircraft. Also announced was the commencement of assembly of its third conforming flight test aircraft.

With the installation of electrical, hydraulic, mechanical and environmental control systems, the first conforming flight test aircraft has entered the ground testing stage in preparation for first flight. Systems tests already completed on the conforming aircraft include, among others: oxygen, fuel tank and vapor cycle systems tests; landing gear deployment tests; steering and brake tests; flight control tests; power distribution tests; core navigation functions (VOR/ILS/GPS) tests; primary air data and attitude/heading sensor tests; and integrated avionic system functional tests. Additional tests completed at supplier facilities include: DC motor pump extreme environmental condition tests; hydraulic and electrical component tests; landing gear actuator vibration tests; landing gear drop tests; and crew and cabin seat crash tests.

Exterior treatment of the first conforming flight test aircraft also is complete with the application of a new HondaJet paint scheme. Featuring a metallic silver-over-white profile combined with a distinctive sweeping fuselage stripe in dark metallic gray, the aircraft sports a bisecting white and dark metallic gray combination stripe extending from its nose over the upper fuselage, further enhancing the HondaJet's unique image of dynamic performance.

Assembly of the second conforming aircraft - to be used for static structural stress testing - was completed in July. Following control surfaces FAA testing, including rudder and elevator tests, static structural stress tests of the entire aircraft have commenced and included: 100% limit-load wing tests; 100% limit-load horizontal stabilizer tests; wing stiffness tests; landing gear load tests; pylon stiffness tests; and fuselage pressure tests. Static structural stress testing has been undertaken at Honda Aircraft Company's R&D facility on its Greensboro, North Carolina, campus.

"In addition to the more than 500 flight hours we have accumulated on the proof of concept HondaJet, the successful completion of this robust range of static structural stress tests on the conforming aircraft significantly reinforces the advantages of the HondaJet's advanced design," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company's President and CEO.

All static structural stress tests are conducted utilizing Honda's advanced structural test system. The system incorporates 61 hydraulic actuators and a 2,600-channel data acquisition system within a structural test fixture designed exclusively for HondaJet testing. The entire aircraft can be tested simultaneously to prove static and fatigue strength under various flight- and ground-load conditions. Testing will continue on static test aircraft as the HondaJet program moves through the certification process. The fourth conforming aircraft will be used for fatigue testing scheduled for 2012.

Honda is now focused on assembly of the third conforming aircraft to be used for flight testing of mechanical systems. The fuselage and empennage for this aircraft have been completed, while the wing assembly nears completion. Final assembly of this aircraft is scheduled to begin soon at Honda's R&D facility on its Greensboro campus.

Testing of aircraft systems on conforming flight test aircraft are supported through the implementation of Honda's industry-leading Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility (ASITF). Honda's ASITF confirms before first flight the integration of the aircraft's electrical, avionics, mechanical and flight control systems, including stall warning protection systems (SWPS) and rudder bias systems (RBS). The HondaJet ASITF incorporates a fully representative primary flight control system with a high-fidelity control-loading system.

The HondaJet ASITF also incorporates actual aircraft systems hardware and software, installed in a spatially-representative manner and interconnected with actual aircraft electrical harnesses. Additional simulation capabilities have been integrated to provide real-time simulation of navigation RF data, including GPS.

"Honda's Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility is a powerful tool that will support the most efficient development and certification process possible for the HondaJet. By effectively identifying any developmental issues at the earliest possible stages of the process, our ASITF system will support an accelerated program momentum and, ultimately, help us create the best possible aircraft," said Fujino.

At this year's NBAA, Honda released HondaJet production cockpit and cabin designs featuring production parts, reflecting the quality of materials, colors and finishes to be available in delivery aircraft. The HondaJet's cockpit design has been updated to reflect the maturity of Honda's human factors engineering efforts and flight test evaluations.

Concurrent with the ongoing assembly of flight test aircraft, construction of the HondaJet production facility on the company's Greensboro campus is quickly nearing completion. The 250,000 ft² production facility is now in the final phase of construction, with interior build-out well underway. The facility is scheduled for completion in early 2011, at which time pre-production preparations and training of production staff will begin. Upon completion, the production facility's two state-of-the-art painting facilities will be utilized to support finishing of additional conforming aircraft, thereby supplementing the painting capacity of Honda's R&D facility on campus. In addition, the HondaJet production facility will incorporate Flight Safety International Level-D, full-motion flight simulators for training of all HondaJet pilots and crew.

Also at this year's NBAA, Honda will conduct demonstrations of its advanced humanoid robot ASIMO to showcase the company's commitment to enhancing and expanding human mobility for the benefit of society. In addition to the design and development of automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment products, Honda's innovative research and development efforts during the past decade have yielded such diverse outcomes as humanoid robotics, walking assist devices, HondaJet, fuel cell electric vehicle technology, thin film solar cells, increased rice crop yields and functional nano-materials.

Based on its belief in the value of technology to address the needs of society, Honda's mission is to develop products that anticipate and satisfy the evolving needs of its customers while meeting society's demand for cleaner, safer, more efficient and sustainable means of transportation and human mobility.

About HondaJet
Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd., began sales of the advanced and innovative HondaJet in October 2006 in the U.S. and has amassed orders for well over 100 aircraft. Scheduled for first delivery in the third quarter of 2012, the $4.5 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency. The HondaJet proof-of-concept aircraft has accumulated more than 500 flight test hours and attained both a top speed of 420 knots (483 mph) and a maximum altitude of 43,000 ft. in flight testing.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

About ASIMO
ASIMO is the culmination of two decades of humanoid robotics research by Honda engineers. ASIMO can run, walk on uneven slopes and surfaces, turn smoothly, climb stairs, and reach for and grasp objects. ASIMO can also comprehend and respond to simple voice commands and has the ability to recognize the face of a select group of individuals. Using its camera eyes, ASIMO can map its environment and register stationary objects in order to avoid moving obstacles as it moves through its environment.

As development continues on ASIMO, Honda demonstrates ASIMO around the world to encourage and inspire young students to study the sciences. And in the future, ASIMO may serve as another set of eyes, ears, hands and legs for all kinds of people in need. Someday ASIMO might help with important tasks like assisting the elderly or a person confined to a bed or a wheelchair.

Learn more about ASIMO at asimo.honda.com.

Connect with Honda:

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Press Only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/alicia_at_honda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web site: http://www.honda.com

HondaJet: HondaJet Program Update Announced at 2010 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:04:55 -0700

- Power-On achieved for first flight test aircraft
- Consolidation of first static test aircraft completed
- HondaJet production facility construction advances rapidly
- HondaJet to participate at Honda Indy 200 Mid-Ohio IRL race

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today released a program update for its HondaJet advanced light jet program highlighting the milestone achievement of Power-On for its first conforming flight test aircraft. Also announced was the successful consolidation of fuselage and wing assemblies for the first static test aircraft, which will be subjected to static structural testing beginning in August.

The recently concluded Power-On tests for the first conforming aircraft included confirmation of power supply both from the on-board battery to the aircraft's Power Distribution System and from the external Ground Power Unit to the Power Distribution System.

"The success of our Power-On tests is an important step in the completion of the first conforming flight test aircraft," said Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO Michimasa Fujino. "With this significant milestone achieved, we are now focused on the integration of avionics and other electrical systems in anticipation of first flight later this year."

Concurrently, consolidation has been achieved for the wing and fuselage assemblies of the first static test aircraft. The first static test aircraft incorporates over 1,800 strain gauges that will be used to evaluate the aircraft's performance during stress testing.

Stress testing is being conducted at Honda Aircraft Company's R&D facility on its Greensboro campus utilizing Honda's advanced MTS FlexTest® structural test system. The system incorporates 61 hydraulic actuators and a 2,600-channel data acquisition system within a structural test fixture designed exclusively for HondaJet testing. The entire aircraft can be tested simultaneously to prove static and fatigue strength under various flight and ground load conditions. Honda's test facility includes an environmental chamber to simulate hot-wet conditions, which is required testing for the validation of composite structures.

Stress testing already is well underway with the completion of testing of sub-component and control surfaces. These components have been successfully tested to ultimate load under FAA supervision at Honda's Greensboro facility.

While the assembly and testing of aircraft continue, Honda is nearing completion of the superstructure for the HondaJet production facility on its Greensboro campus and will next begin the installation of electrical and plumbing within the facility. The 250,000 ft² production facility is scheduled for total completion in early 2011, at which time pre-production preparations and training of production staff will begin. The HondaJet production facility also will house Flight Safety International Level-D, full-motion flight simulators for training of all HondaJet pilots and crew.

Following its appearance at this year's EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the proof-of-concept HondaJet will travel to Lexington, Ohio, to participate in the Honda Indy 200 Mid-Ohio IRL race on August 8. Celebrating Honda's challenging spirit and its passion for speed, the HondaJet will perform a demonstration flight above the track prior to the start of the race. The annual Ohio stop on the Indy Racing League tour is conducted at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, which features a 2.25-mile, 13-turn circuit that is considered one of the most challenging race circuits in the U.S. With a top speed of 420 kts (483 mph), the HondaJet is sure to become the fastest Honda in the history of the event.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Launches "Operation Deep Appreciation" in Support of U.S. Service Members Overseas

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:07:55 -0800

Honda Aircraft Company today launched "Operation Deep Appreciation" in support of U.S. service members stationed overseas. Honda and its associates are sending care packages to show their support and appreciation for U.S. service members on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. One package is being sent for approximately each Honda associate at the company’s Greensboro, North Carolina, campus.

The care packages are destined for North Carolina-based members of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps deployed from Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune, respectively. Honda is providing the package contents, and Honda associates are individually packing the boxes and adding a personal note of thanks to each service member.

"With the establishment of Honda Aircraft Company in the Triad, we have endeavored to positively affect the community," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO. "Our associates' initiative to undertake this important program reflects their strong sense of pride in the community."

"We want U.S. service members to know that we are thinking of them this holiday season," said Stephen Keeney, Honda Aircraft Company Senior Manager of Corporate Affairs. "This program is a wonderful opportunity for Honda associates to demonstrate their thanks to the men and women overseas who serve our Country. Five hundred packages are being prepared and contain personal care items, socks, shower shoes, a selection of snacks and candies, batteries, holiday decorations, and other items. This care package is a small symbol of our appreciation for the sacrifice these individuals make on a daily basis to insure our security and freedom."

Honda Aircraft Company's associate ranks include retired U.S. service personnel who are actively participating in "Operation Deep Appreciation." "As a Marine, I am personally aware of the positive impact these symbols of support have on our troops. Receiving an unexpected package from home boosts the spirits of our troops and lets them know that America is thinking of them as they put themselves in harm's way," said Jon Wells, Honda Aircraft Company Manager of Logistics and Major, USMC, retired.

The packages are expected to arrive during the Thanksgiving holiday.

About Honda Aircraft Company
Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd. Honda has invested more than $100 million to establish its aircraft world headquarters facility in Greensboro, North Carolina, for the research, production, and sale of its HondaJet advanced light business jet. Honda began taking orders for the innovative HondaJet in October 2006 in the U.S. and has amassed orders for well over 100 aircraft. The $3.9 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency.

The HondaJet incorporates many innovative technological advances in aviation design, including a unique over-the-wing engine-mount configuration that dramatically improves aircraft performance and fuel efficiency by significantly reducing aerodynamic drag in flight. This innovative approach to airframe design also lowers ground-detected noise when overhead and allows for a more spacious cabin and greater cargo capacity. The HondaJet achieves a top speed of 420 knots (483 mph), which is the fastest in its class, and offers the largest cabin and the best fuel efficiency in its class.

The HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines. First deliveries of the HondaJet are scheduled for late 2011.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Announces Major Milestones for Its HondaJet Advanced Light Jet Program at 2009 NBAA Convention

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:02:55 -0700

Major structural assemblies for first conforming aircraft completed
Production avionics suite debuts
First flight of Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility accomplished
In-flight Entertainment System availability confirmed
Flight Ready™ Maintenance Service Program announced
Construction of HondaJet production facility has commenced
FedEx® logistics partnership formalized

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention significant milestone achievements for its HondaJet advanced light jet program, including the completion of major structural assemblies for the first conforming aircraft. Also announced were the selection of a significantly upgraded avionics suite for the production aircraft featuring Garmin's new, cutting-edge G3000 avionics system, the successful first flight of Honda's industry-leading Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility, Honda's comprehensive Flight Ready™ Maintenance Service Program, and the company's FedEx® logistics partnership.

Program Update
In preparation for first flight of conforming aircraft in early 2010, Honda has completed major structural assemblies including the fuselage, wing, empennage, landing gear, and other components for the first conforming aircraft. These components were completed or delivered in September 2009. Fabrication of conforming aircraft has commenced under the strict supervision of Honda and FAA quality control representatives, while Honda's manufacturing engineering team focuses on the optimization of assembly processes.

Honda also has completed successfully a number of important qualification tests, such as rejected take-off (RTO) brake tests and crew- and cabin-seat crash tests, as well as critical structural parts tests.

Honda continues to work very closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding certification of the HondaJet and completed an Interim Type Certification Board Meeting (ITCBM) in August 2009. A formal agreement has been reached and implemented with the FAA regarding the manufacturing conformity process for the type-certification test aircraft. This process currently is being used for the build of the first conforming aircraft. In addition, Honda and the FAA are engaged in detailed discussions to finalize the requirements for the first Type Inspection Authorization (TIA), which allows the start of FAA flight testing.

To expedite the build of conforming aircraft and establish precise, high quality fabrication processes, Honda has chosen to manufacture conforming aircraft wing assemblies at its R&D complex on its world headquarters campus in Greensboro, North Carolina. In addition, in-house cutting-edge 5-axis milling capabilities provide Honda with maximum efficiency and the highest quality in the creation of detail parts for conforming aircraft fabrication.

Honda also has completed preparations for on-site static and fatigue structural testing. Honda's advanced MTS FlexTest® structural test system incorporates 61 hydraulic actuators and a 2,600-channel data acquisition system within a structural test fixture designed exclusively for HondaJet testing. The system is capable of testing the entire aircraft to prove static and fatigue strength under various flight and ground load conditions. Honda's test facility includes an environmental chamber to simulate hot-wet conditions, which is required testing for the validation of composite structures.

"We are pleased to have achieved such positive results in the completion of major structural assemblies for conforming aircraft, and we are now fully focused on final assembly of the first conforming aircraft. We are now ready for FAA structural testing. Although we face many challenges ahead, every Honda associate is diligently working towards first flight early next year," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO.

New, Advanced HondaJet Avionics Suite
The production HondaJet flight deck will feature a Honda-customized Garmin® G3000 next-generation all-glass avionics system incorporating a class-leading layout with three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers for overall avionics control and flight plan entries. The HondaJet Avionics Suite provides a significantly enhanced pilot interface compared to flight decks incorporating the previous generation Garmin G1000 Suite.

The HondaJet Avionics Suite is the most advanced glass flight deck available in any light business jet and provides state-of-the-art integrated avionics functionality featuring split screen MFD capability, satellite weather, graphical synoptics, digital audio, and optional Synthetic Vision.

"The HondaJet Avionics Suite, integrated into our human-centric cockpit design, represents a significant enhancement in both capability and user experience. The large-format displays, advanced features, and intuitive touch-screen multi-function controllers provide a low-workload user interface that is ideally suited to our high-performance light jet aircraft," said Fujino.

Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility (ASITF)
On October 7, 2009, Honda Aircraft Company accomplished the successful first flight of the HondaJet Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility (ASITF) located within the company's R&D complex on its Greensboro, North Carolina, campus. This event represents a critical milestone for the HondaJet program and is another significant step toward the first flight of conforming aircraft. The HondaJet ASITF was developed internally by Honda Aircraft Company engineers.

The HondaJet ASITF is an aircraft systems integration test facility, primarily consisting of two major elements: the aircraft test facility, and the Real-time Test and Simulation System (RTSS). The HondaJet ASITF incorporates actual aircraft systems hardware and software, installed in a spatially-representative manner, and interconnected with actual aircraft electrical harnesses. The RTSS provides the systems, environmental and aerodynamic simulation, supported by dSPACE® real-time hardware and I/O hosting Honda-developed high fidelity 6-DOF aerodynamic and real-time engine models. Additional simulation capabilities have been integrated to provide real-time simulation of navigation RF data, including GPS.

The HondaJet ASITF also includes a fully representative primary flight control system with a high-fidelity control-loading system. The avionics configuration during the HondaJet ASITF first flight included the new HondaJet Avionics Suite.

"The HondaJet ASITF has successfully integrated the best attributes of a systems test lab, engineering simulator, and 'Iron Bird' in one facility," said Fujino. "This facility allows thorough evaluation of all systems integration for enhanced aircraft safety and will significantly support accelerated development of both systems and conforming aircraft."

HondaJet Cabin Management and In-flight Entertainment System
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the production HondaJet will optionally offer EMTEQ's SkyPro® integrated cabin management and in-flight entertainment system featuring all-digital high-definition touch-screen interface technology. The HondaJet cabin management and in-flight entertainment system will include audio/video on demand (AVOD), interactive 3-D high-definition moving map, and extensive cabin control capabilities such as cabin/cockpit communications, climate control and interior lighting, among others.

AVOD is available through the system's removable media storage unit, which is capable of storing virtually an entire media collection. Passengers can interface through the onboard system's multiple media inputs with audio, video, or gaming systems brought onto the aircraft and play content on cabin speakers and HD monitors. HondaJet also will offer an XM® Satellite Radio option, where the system will interface with XM and allow passengers to select their desired station presets at their seats.

"The concept HondaJet cabin management and in-flight entertainment system was exceptionally well-received by customers. In order to meet strong customer demand, we will offer on the HondaJet a class-leading system with a unique Honda-designed interface providing maximum functionality and ease of use," commented Fujino.

Flight Ready™ Maintenance Service Program
Honda has unveiled its HondaJet Flight Ready™ maintenance service program, which is designed to maximize flying time and minimize variations in maintenance costs. Flight Ready™ makes HondaJet authorized materials and maintenance services available when and where customers need them. Program participation allows aircraft owners to plan on one hourly maintenance rate based on selected coverage and tailored to expected aircraft utilization. The program offers three levels of coverage to meet the diverse needs of HondaJet customers.

Flight Ready™ Protection - P¹™ ("P-One") is included in the purchase price of all new HondaJet aircraft. In addition to other OEM support services, it provides a comprehensive warranty program including airframe, avionics and engine warranties.

Flight Ready™ Performance - P²™ ("P-Two") is designed for customers who have access to facilities with qualified and trained technicians. It provides various services, including airframe and avionics exchange component coverage that extends to both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events.

Flight Ready™ Precision - P³™ ("P-Three") was created for customers who want the convenience of one-stop servicing. In addition to coverage in the P²™ plan, it also includes labor expenses for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance performed at authorized HondaJet maintenance facilities. This plan is Honda’s “Nose-to-Tail” service option.

All HondaJet Flight Ready™ plans are fully transferrable. Extended engine coverage - provided through GE Honda Aero Engines - is available up to full engine overhaul, including all major components and systems.

HondaJet Production Facility
Construction of the HondaJet production facility on Honda Aircraft Company's world headquarters campus in Greensboro, North Carolina, has begun with the completion of ground preparations and the commencement of piling installations. The 250,000 ft2 facility is scheduled to be completed in February 2011 and will house all HondaJet production activities, as well as test flight operations and pilot training facilities. Honda has partnered with Flight Safety International® to provide pilot training utilizing industry-leading full-motion Level-D flight simulators that will be installed in the HondaJet production facility.

While construction of the production facility continues, Honda's world headquarters building and R&D complex on campus are in full operation. Assembly of conforming aircraft currently is taking place in Honda's 187,000 ft2 R&D complex that also incorporates ongoing research and development activities. The R&D complex has full production capabilities, including all necessary quality control and testing resources, paint booths, and maintenance support facilities. The HondaJet world delivery center also is located within Honda's R&D complex.

FedEx® Partnership
At the 2009 NBAA convention, Honda Aircraft Company and Federal Express formalized a business partnership to provide worldwide logistics support for HondaJet production activities and customer support of the HondaJet aircraft. This partnership results from the successful, long-standing relationship between FedEx and Honda globally and from FedEx's ability to provide a multi-faceted logistics support network that will enable the most efficient and expedient delivery of support materials for customers, thereby further enhancing the overall HondaJet ownership experience.

By choosing FedEx, Honda has the ability to move all HondaJet support parts through an array of services, depending on customer needs. These services encompass all aspects of the logistics supply chain and include Express, Ground, Less-than-Truck-Load (LTL), Custom-Critical, Trucking, Ocean, and FedEx Trade Networks' Customs Brokerage and Clearance services.

The new FedEx Worldwide Service Center, located near Honda Aircraft Company's campus at the Piedmont-Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina, provides Honda with enhanced flexibility to fulfill critical shipment deadlines and offers direct East Coast shipping to regional U.S. HondaJet sales and service facilities. In addition, the ability to communicate between each spoke of the FedEx worldwide network enables Honda to ensure uninterrupted service to its global customers.

About HondaJet
Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd., began sales of the advanced and innovative HondaJet in October 2006 in the U.S. and has amassed orders for well over 100 aircraft. The $3.9 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency. The HondaJet proof-of-concept aircraft has accumulated more than 500 flight test hours and attained a top speed of 420 knots (483 mph) and a maximum altitude of 43,000 ft. in flight testing.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Updates HondaJet Program

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 08:57:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced important updates to its HondaJet aviation program including revised first flight and delivery timetables for the company's industry-leading advanced light jet. Ongoing global aerospace industry business challenges have resulted in a delay in receiving critical components for conforming aircraft production, which will result in a new first flight target of January 2010 and projected first customer delivery in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Honda Aircraft Company is partnering with leading aerospace industry suppliers for the manufacture of major subassemblies utilizing proprietary Honda designs and technologies. Delays in delivering some of these critical components to Honda for conforming aircraft production has required a revision in the first flight target for conforming aircraft to January 2010. As a result, first customer delivery, originally scheduled for late 2010, is projected in the fourth quarter of 2011 following completion of FAA flight-testing certification.

"We have been working very closely with our suppliers over the past year in an effort to minimize the effect of the ongoing worldwide economic instability on HondaJet development," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO. "Unfortunately, we now have no choice but to revise our schedule. We appreciate our customers' continued trust and their understanding of the challenges we are facing to bring to them the most advanced light jet available."

Honda Aircraft Company has progressed with the establishment of its new state-of-the-art world headquarters campus in Greensboro, North Carolina, where the HondaJet is being developed and will be manufactured. The campus complex includes a world headquarters building that incorporates all engineering, sales, support, marketing, and administration functions. The recently completed world R&D center on campus features over four acres under roof and houses the ongoing construction of conforming aircraft. The R&D facility also houses the world delivery center for all HondaJet aircraft.

The HondaJet offers superior performance, greater interior space and cargo capacity, higher levels of standard equipment, and significantly lower fuel consumption than any light jet of its size. At $3.9 million, the HondaJet is also priced for much less than its leading light jet competitor. "We are confident we will deliver to our customers the best-performing and best-valued light jet in the industry," added Fujino.

Ground will be broken this summer on the final phase of campus infrastructure development with construction of the HondaJet production facility. With the completion of the HondaJet production facility, the company's total world headquarters complex will reach 500,000 ft2 under roof on the 83-acre campus.

"We are moving forward confidently with the HondaJet program with the full backing and strength of our parent, Honda Motor Company. Our production facility will incorporate not only production functions, but also world-class flight training facilities. We will deliver to our customers an aircraft of outstanding quality that will be supported with exceptional sales, service and flight training programs," said Fujino.

About HondaJet

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Ltd., began sales of the advanced and innovative HondaJet in October 2006 in the U.S. and has amassed orders for well over 100 aircraft. The $3.9 million HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency. The HondaJet proof-of-concept aircraft has accumulated more than 425 flight test hours and attained a top speed of 420 knots (483 mph) and a maximum altitude of 43,000 ft. in flight testing.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Begins European Sales of HondaJet With Plans for Exclusive Regional Sales and Service Network

Tue, 20 May 2008 02:55:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today began European sales of the HondaJet advanced light jet at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) with the announcement that it will establish a new European network of three HondaJet-exclusive sales and service centers to provide sales and service support to its customers in Europe.

Honda Aircraft Company also announced an expansion of its relationship with FlightSafety International, the world's leading pilot training company, to provide its customers with flight training in Europe. Further, Honda debuted a new in-flight entertainment (IFE) system concept with cutting-edge features.

"Europe is one of the world's fastest growing markets for light jets and we have a great number of customers who have contacted us over the past two years about owning a HondaJet," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO. "We approached the selection of our sales and service partners with great attention to detail. And I tried to find people with a challenging spirit, who share our passion for this product and our passion to create a new and higher standard for the private jet aircraft ownership experience in Europe."

HondaJet European Sales and Service Network
Advancing its commitment to provide HondaJet customers with class-leading levels of satisfaction in sales and service support for light jets, the company is partnering with three European companies to establish a network of stand-alone, state-of-the-art centers dedicated exclusively to the sales and service of HondaJet. These new regional facilities are scheduled to begin operation in late 2012 in time for the first European HondaJet deliveries, and will be strategically located in close proximity to customers in the regions surrounding the U.K., Germany and Spain.

Northern Europe and the United Kingdom: Honda Aircraft Company will partner with TAG Aviation SA to establish HondaJet U.K. & Northern Europe at Farnborough Airport, U.K. This HondaJet facility will provide sales and service support for HondaJet customers from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland.

Central Europe: Honda Aircraft Company will partner with Rheinland Air Service GmbH to establish HondaJet Central Europe in Frankfurt, Germany. Central European HondaJet customers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia will be supported by HondaJet Central Europe.

Southern Europe: Honda Aircraft Company will partner with Aviastec to establish HondaJet Southern Europe in the Madrid area of Spain. HondaJet Southern Europe will accommodate the needs of customers from Spain, Portugal, France, Monaco, Italy, Greece, and Turkey.

New Flight Training Operation in Europe
Honda also announced the expansion of its partnership with FlightSafety International to cover pilot training for all European customers. FlightSafety International is developing a Level-D full-motion flight simulator for HondaJet. The first simulator will be installed at Honda Aircraft Company's new headquarters facility, and a European location will be announced in the future.
"We are pleased to offer our European customers the world's highest quality of pilot training through our partnership with FlightSafety International," Fujino said. "This symbolizes our commitment to provide class-leading support in every aspect of the light-jet ownership experience."

New HondaJet Entertainment Concept
Honda further unveiled at EBACE a cutting-edge in-flight entertainment (IFE) system concept. The system offers passengers personal control of in-cabin video and audio entertainment, climate systems, and cabin/cockpit communications through high-definition touch panel displays. The touch panel displays deploy from the ceiling and provide passengers with access to video and audio programs.
"I hope this cabin mockup demonstrates how we are working to innovate every aspect of the customer experience," said Fujino. "We look forward to receiving customer feedback on the system."

About HondaJet
Honda Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., began sales of the advanced and innovative HondaJet in October 2006 in the U.S. and has quickly amassed orders for well over 100 aircraft. HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency.

"When I designed the HondaJet, I did not compromise performance and comfort. I did not compromise cost and quality. The concept for HondaJet was to offer both high speed performance and high fuel efficiency with superior comfort," said Fujino. Offering class-leading performance, fuel efficiency, interior cabin space and cargo capacity, HondaJet offers European business and personal light jet owners and operators a maximum cruise speed of 420KTAS (773 kph / 483 mph) and luxurious accommodations for five passengers and two crew in its executive configuration, including a fully private lavatory.

HondaJet incorporates many innovative technological advances in aviation design, including a unique over-the-wing engine-mount configuration that dramatically improves aircraft performance and fuel efficiency by significantly reducing aerodynamic drag in flight. This innovative approach to airframe design also lowers ground-detected noise when overhead and allows for a more spacious cabin and greater cargo capacity. HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines.

Honda Aircraft Company anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the achievement of U.S. Federal Aviation type certification in 2010. The company is scheduled to begin deliveries of HondaJet to U.S. customers in 2010. Significantly, Honda is concurrently pursuing European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification with FAA certification.

All HondaJet deliveries worldwide will take place at Honda Aircraft Company's new world delivery center, currently under construction along with its new world headquarters, R&D facility and production plant at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina, U.S. The world headquarters and R&D facility are scheduled for completion in summer 2008, with the production plant and delivery center scheduled to be completed in late 2009.

Learn more about HondaJet at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Expands HondaJet Sales to Europe

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:31:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced plans to expand sales of HondaJet to Europe, beginning in May at the annual EBACE (European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition) conference in Geneva, Switzerland. The sales expansion comes as Honda Aircraft Company today finalized its U.S. distribution network with the selection of Albany, New York, as the final location among its five sales and service facilities being established across the country.

Honda's decision to expand sales of its advanced light jet to the rapidly growing European market is in response to strong demand for the aircraft from customers throughout the region. Offering class-leading performance, fuel efficiency, interior cabin space and cargo capacity, HondaJet is well suited to meet the needs of European business and personal light jet owners and operators.

"We are excited to initiate sales in Europe, where we have received a steady stream of inquiries from interested customers who will now have the opportunity to reserve delivery of a HondaJet," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO. "We are committed to providing our customers with both a class-leading product and a sales and service support system that exceed their expectations for private jet ownership and travel."

Honda recently expanded HondaJet sales throughout North America, announcing the establishment of a sales and service strategy for Mexico and Canada. "The expansion of HondaJet sales to Europe is an important step in the continued evolution of our business strategy, which seeks to address the extensive worldwide demand for HondaJet," said Fujino.

Further details regarding the HondaJet European sales and service support strategy and delivery timing will be released by Honda on May 20, 2008, at EBACE.

With the selection of Albany, N.Y., as the location for its HondaJet East sales and service facility, Honda has completed the establishment of a nationwide U.S. sales and service infrastructure for HondaJet. Tallahassee, Fla. (HondaJet Southeast), Aurora, Ill. (HondaJet Midwest), Phoenix, Ariz. (HondaJet Southwest), and Salt Lake City, Utah (HondaJet Northwest) previously have been announced as HondaJet sales and service locations. Honda has established its U.S. sales and service network to provide unparalleled quality and convenience to HondaJet customers, with flight times for all customers to their nearest facility limited to 90 minutes or less.

Construction on all of the U.S. HondaJet sales and service facilities will begin in the near future, and completion is scheduled to coincide with the anticipated certification and first deliveries of HondaJet in 2010.

About HondaJet
Honda Aircraft Company began U.S. sales of the HondaJet in October 2006 and quickly amassed orders for well over 100 units. HondaJet is Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency, delivering class-topping cruise speed and fuel efficiency, greater luggage capacity and a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight people, compared to other similarly sized jet aircraft. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro, N.C., facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations.

Working closely with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Honda Aircraft Company anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the achievement of type certification in 2010. The company is scheduled to begin deliveries of HondaJet to U.S. customers in 2010. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification is being pursued concurrently with FAA certification.

All HondaJet customer deliveries will take place at Honda Aircraft Company's new world delivery center, currently under construction along with its new world headquarters, R&D facility, and production plant at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The world headquarters and R&

facility are scheduled for completion in summer 2008, with the production plant and delivery center scheduled for completion in late 2009.

Worldwide HondaJet pilot training will be conducted in partnership with Flight Safety International, which will include the development of a Level-D full-motion flight simulator for HondaJet. The first simulator will be installed at Honda Aircraft Company's new headquarters facility. Additional training facilities will be established in the future as HondaJet sales continue to grow.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Expands HondaJet Sales to Mexico and Canada

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 02:01:00 -0800

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced the expansion of sales of its advanced light jet HondaJet throughout North America with the selection of a retail sales and service representative for Mexico and a direct sales and U.S. service support plan for Canada. Honda Aircraft Company also announced its first fractional booking from Mexico with an order for 10 aircraft.

HondaJet retail sales and service for Mexico will be provided by Servicios Aéreos Estrella, S.A. de C.V. (SAE), one of the country's top full-service Fixed Base Operators (FBO), located at Mexico City's Toluca International Airport (TLC). SAE will establish a new HondaJet sales and service facility at TLC for the nationwide retail sales and service operations for the HondaJet. SAE will begin taking customer orders immediately with first deliveries of the HondaJet expected in Mexico in 2012.

"This is an important step to have our business plan in place in Mexico and Canada," said Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO Michimasa Fujino. "With its long-standing commitment to excellence in all its FBO operations, SAE offers HondaJet customers in Mexico the ultimate in sales and service support. We are confident that we have established the basis for exceptional customer support at a strategic location that will provide our customers with unparalleled quality and convenience."

"It is an honor to represent HondaJet in Mexico," said Juan Gonzalez, SAE president. "Honda is famous in Mexico as a technological leader in advanced mobility products, and the HondaJet represents the cutting-edge in light jet aviation. We believe the HondaJet will offer our customers the best in fast, reliable and economical business and personal air travel in Mexico."

In conjunction with the expansion of sales to Mexico, Honda Aircraft Company has received a fractional order for 10 units of HondaJet from Aerolíneas Ejecutivas, S.A. de C.V. (ALE). The planes will be added to the company's Mexjet charter fleet and will be delivered beginning in 2012. ALE operates one of the largest fractional owner and air charter businesses in Mexico out of offices in Toluca and Monterrey and utilizes the most modern fleet of planes in the country.

Honda Aircraft Company also announced that it has opened HondaJet sales to Canada, with all sales to be handled directly from the company's headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina. Service support for Canadian customers will be provided through the U.S. HondaJet service facility closest to each Canadian customer's location.

Honda Aircraft Company began U.S. sales of the HondaJet in October 2006 and quickly amassed orders for well over 100 units. In order to answer increasing worldwide demand for the plane, the company is expanding sales internationally starting now with the inclusion of all of North America.

About HondaJet
HondaJet, Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency, delivering class-topping cruise speed and fuel efficiency, greater luggage capacity and a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight people, compared to other products in the very light jet (VLJ) class. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro, North Carolina, facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations.

Working closely with the FAA, Honda Aircraft Company anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the achievement of type certification in 2010. The company will begin deliveries of HondaJet to customers in 2010.

All HondaJet customer deliveries will take place at Honda Aircraft Company's new world delivery center, currently under construction along with its new world headquarters, R&D facility and production plant at the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The world headquarters and R&D facility are scheduled for completion in summer 2008, with the production plant and delivery center to be completed in late 2009.

HondaJet: Honda Aviation - A Brief History

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 12:00:00 -0800

1986	Honda begins research in Japan on both small aircraft and jet engines.
1993	Honda begins research on composite body aircraft with Mississippi State University (MSU), leading to development of aircraft called "MH-02" that is jointly fabricated and tested by Honda and MSU. Research continues until 1996.
1995	Honda begins high altitude testing of its first generation turbofan engine, HFX-01, conducting more than 70 hours of tests through 1996.
1999	Development begins of the HF118 turbofan jet engine in the 1,000 to 3,500-pound thrust class, featuring a compact, lightweight, and fuel-efficient design.
2000	Honda R&D Americas establishes a research facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina in October 2000 for the purpose of researching, fabricating and flight testing of HondaJet.
2002	Honda conducts high altitude tests of the HF118 engine starting in June 2002. Honda publishes and reports its first technical paper in June 2002 concerning technological achievements of the new airframe. Honda continues publishing technical papers, with the most recent paper in June 2005.
2003	HondaJet takes first test flight, December 3, 2003. Honda makes first public announcement of the achievement days later.
2004	Honda and GE Aviation announce February 16, 2004, an alliance to commercialize the HF 118 engine, and establish a joint venture, GE-Honda Aero Engines, LLC, in October 2004, to pursue the development, production and sales of Honda's HF118 turbofan engine in the light business jet market. In July 2004, Honda establishes Honda Aero, Inc. to manage its aircraft engine business in the U.S. and the Wako Nishi R&D Center in Japan to research and develop turbofan jet and piston aviation engines.
2005	HondaJet makes its public "world debut" at the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) AirVenture 2005 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 28, 2005.
2006	Honda announces that it will commercialize HondaJet at the EAA AirVenture 2006 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 25, 2006. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. (HACI) established in August 2006, responsible for Honda's overall airframe business strategy, and the further development, sales promotion and production of the innovative HondaJet. GE Honda Aero Engines successfully runs a proof-of-concept version of the GE Honda HF120 turbofan engine, exceeding the company's internal development targets for both thrust performance and specific fuel consumption (SFP) on the engine's first test run. GE Honda Aero Engines announced that it had secured orders for the new HF120 engine (a higher thrust successor to the HF118), from Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., maker of the HondaJet advanced light jet; and Spectrum Aeronautical, maker of the Spectrum Freedom business jet. The announcement was made at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Orlando, Florida, October 16, 2006. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. begins sales of HondaJet at the NBAA (National Business Aviation Association) annual convention in Orlando, Florida, on October 17. HondaJet will be powered by the HF120 turbofan engine. HondaJet is targeted for type certification in 3-4 years with production in the U.S. beginning 2010.
2007	Honda Aircraft Company announces location of its $100 million world headquarters and production facility at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2007. Honda Aircraft Company breaks ground for new headquarters and production facility, June 27, 2007. Construction of the 219,000 sq. ft. offices and airplane hanger is scheduled for completion in Spring 2008. The remaining 150,000 sq. ft. production facility is expected to be completed by Fall 2009. Honda Aero announced plans, July 17, 2007, to establish its headquarters and jet engine manufacturing facility in Burlington, North Carolina, beginning with production of the GE Honda HF120 turbofan engine in 2010. Honda Aero conducted an official groundbreaking ceremony, November 28, 2007, for its new headquarters and engine manufacturing facility in Burlington, North Carolina, near the Burlington Alamance County regional airport.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Reveals New HondaJet Interior Design and Sales Network Developments at 2007 NBAA Convention

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 02:00:00 -0700

- New HondaJet Interior designed by Honda's U.S. R&D Operations -
- Standalone dealer facilities to feature full-size hangar -
- Flight Safety International to develop HondaJet pilot training program -

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced a series of major advancements to HondaJet design and to the HondaJet sales and service network at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention. The company showcased a completely new interior design concept for the advanced light jet, along with new exterior color scheme studies, and an animated tour of the exclusive HondaJet sales and service facilities.

Honda Aircraft Company also announced a partnership with Flight Safety International to create a new flight simulator and pilot training program for HondaJet.

New Interior Concept

HondaJet's new interior concept was introduced with a special focus on human fit, ergonomic efficiency and safety for the customer. Honda has created a cabin environment befitting the company's reputation for world-class engineering and attention to detail in the quality of materials, design and construction.

HondaJet's new cockpit design incorporated learning from extensive study on the human factors of pilots and pays special attention to the layout. The production version of HondaJet will also incorporate an all-glass avionics package developed for HondaJet by Garmin®.

Honda also provided a glimpse into potential additional production colors, with colors on display including a brilliant HondaJet Silver Metallic; a rich HondaJet Red; as well as versions in HondaJet Green and HondaJet Yellow.

"From the beginning, it has been our goal to bring new value to the field of aviation," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO, Honda Aircraft Company. "With a focus on innovation we will continue our efforts to deliver a product of outstanding performance, quality and comfort with the best sales and service operation to exceed customer expectations."

Exclusive Dealer Network

For the first time, Honda Aircraft Company showed its proposed design specifications for standalone HondaJet sales and service dealer facilities that will be established throughout the United States over the next several years. The facilities will feature a large hangar for service operations and will be designed to provide a new level of customer sales and service support in the light jet class.

New Pilot Training Simulator

As part of its continuing commitment to safety, Honda Aircraft Company announced that it has established a partnership with Flight Safety International (FSI) to conduct the HondaJet pilot training program, including the development of a Level-D full motion flight simulator for HondaJet. The first simulator will be installed at Honda Aircraft Company's new headquarters facility in Greensboro, North Carolina. Additional training facilities will be established in the future as HondaJet sales grow.

Update on Type Certification

The company also provided an update on FAA type certification for HondaJet. Working closely with the FAA, Honda Aircraft Company anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the on schedule achievement of type certification in 2010.

About HondaJet

HondaJet, Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency, delivering class-topping cruise speed and fuel efficiency, greater luggage capacity and a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight people, compared to other products in the very light jet (VLJ) class. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro, North Carolina facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations.

In late June, Honda broke ground for a new facility in Greensboro that will replace the company's existing complex. Phase one of construction will be completed in spring 2008, and will consist of offices, research facilities and an airplane hangar. The HondaJet production facility is currently in the design phase, with construction planned to begin following the completion of the headquarters. The company is on target to begin deliveries of HondaJet to customers in 2010.

HondaJet: HondaJet Backgrounder

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Background: HondaJet is an advanced light jet with revolutionary technology and design attributes that help it achieve far better fuel efficiency, more available cabin and luggage space, and higher cruise speed than conventional aircraft in its class.
HondaJet Innovation: A patented over-the-wing engine-mount (OTWEM) configuration was developed using advanced concepts in aerodynamics and design simulation. The OTWEM configuration eliminates the carry-through structure of conventional fuselage-mount designs, allowing for greater use of fuselage space for the cabin and cargo areas. The configuration is also expected to reduce cabin noise. Through optimization of the design and placement of the engine nacelles, the OTWEM configuration actually exhibits less drag at high speeds than conventional "clean wing" designs, contributing significantly to HondaJet's superior performance and fuel efficiency. A natural-laminar flow (NLF) wing and NLF fuselage nose were developed through extensive analyses and wind tunnel testing. These designs help achieve lower aerodynamic drag at high speeds together with a high lift coefficient. An advanced all-composite fuselage structure, consisting of a unique combination of honeycomb sandwich and stiffened panels structures joined using a patented integral co-curing process, reduces weight for optimal performance and payload capacity, while also reducing manufacturing complexity. An advanced, all-glass cockpit utilizes the next-generation of the Garmin G1000 avionics platform with features and capabilities unique to the HondaJet.
Milestone Achievements: HondaJet was designed and developed by Honda engineers working in the U.S. and Japan. Research work that led to the creation of HondaJet began in 1986. The jet was constructed by Honda R&D Americas in Greensboro, North Carolina, and all flight tests have been conducted in the U.S. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., headquartered in Greensboro, was established in October 2006 to oversee certification, production and sales of HondaJet. Major ground tests including structural proof tests, control-system proof test, system function tests and ground vibration tests were completed in December 2003. HondaJet made its first flight on Dec. 2, 2003 HondaJet has recorded more than 330 flight hours through September 2007 Application for FAA type-certification was made on October 11, 2006
*Basic Design Specifications:*
Maximum Cruise Speed @ FL300	420KTAS
Service Ceiling	FL430
Pressurization (Differential)	8.7psi
*Range Performance:*
VFR Range (Maximum fuel with available payload - 644lbs)	1400nm
NBAA IFR Range (Cruise@FL410, Alternate 100nm, 45 minute reserve, 1 Pilot plus 3 Passengers)	1180 nm
Rate of Climb	3990 ft/min
*Airport Performance:*
Take-off Distance (distance required to climb to 35 feet above the runway plus a 15% factor)	3120 ft
Landing Distance	2500 ft
Engines:
Manufacturer / Model	GE HONDA / HF120 (x2)
Output	1880 lb/each (Max Take-Off)
Bypass Ratio	2.9
*External Dimensions:*
Height	13.21 ft (4.03 m)
Length	41.70 ft (12.71 m)
Span	39.87 ft (12.15 m)
*Cabin Dimensions:*
Height	4.94 ft (1.51 m)
Length (fwd. pressure bulkhead to aft pressure bulkhead	17.80 ft (5.43 m)
Width	5.00 ft (1.52 m)
*Seating:*
Typical	2 crews + 5 passengers (or 1 crew + 6 passengers)
Air taxi	2 crews + 6 passengers
*Baggage Capacity:*
Nose Baggage	9 cubic feet.
Aft Baggage	57 cubic feet

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Breaks Ground for $100 Million Headquarters and HondaJet Production Facility in Greensboro, North Carolina

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 09:17:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. (HACI), today took the next major step toward delivering HondaJet into the hands of its customers, by breaking ground for its new 369,000 square foot headquarters and manufacturing facility at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) airport in Greensboro, North Carolina.

"By breaking ground for this new Honda Aircraft facility today, we take the next important step in getting HondaJets into the skies tomorrow," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "With the warm reception we have received in the Triad, and the great response HondaJet has received from our customers, we are confident of a very bright future here in North Carolina."

HACI will manage the research, development, sales, marketing and manufacturing* of the advanced light jet, HondaJet, at the new facility, which will replace the company's existing 32,000 square foot hangar and office complex at PTI. Phase one of construction will be completed in Spring 2008, and will consist of approximately 219,000 square feet of offices, research facilities and an airplane hangar. The HondaJet production facility, measuring approximately 150,000 square feet, is currently in the design phase. HACI plans to begin deliveries of HondaJet to customers in 2010.

Investment for construction of the headquarters and production facility will be about $100 million including equipment. Total Honda Aircraft Company employment, including all engineering, sales and marketing, manufacturing and support activities, will increase to approximately 350 associates once the manufacturing plant reaches full production.

In addition, the company anticipates that about 90 percent of HondaJet's component parts will be supplied by companies in the U.S. and Canada.

All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations. The HondaJet production facility will become Honda's seventeenth major manufacturing plant in North America, including two currently under construction in Indiana and Ontario, Canada. Honda already has a $188 million North Carolina manufacturing facility, near Swepsonville, that has been producing general purpose engines, lawn mowers and other power equipment products since 1984.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Founded in Japan in 1948, Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. The company has invested more than $9 billion in its North American operations, with employment of more than 33,000 associates and annual purchases of more than $16 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America. Nearly 80 percent of the Honda and Acura automobiles purchased by U.S. consumers in 2006 were manufactured* by Honda plants in North America.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. World Headquarters & Production Facility - Fact Sheet

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 09:15:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., will manage the research, development, sales, marketing and manufacturing of the advanced light jet, HondaJet, at a world headquarters facility at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. Ground was broken for the new facility in June 2007. The new facility will replace the company's existing 32,000 square foot hangar and office complex at PTI. Honda is working with the U.S. Green Building Council to earn the organization's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

Location:	Piedmont Triad International Airport, Greensboro, N.C.
Facility Size:	369,000 sq. ft. (219,000 sq. ft. of office, R&D, and hangar space / 150,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space)
Site Size:	83 acres
Capital Investment:	$100 million (includes equipment)
Production Capacity:	Approximately 100 units per year
Employment:	Total employment - approximately 350
Timeline of Activity:	Month/Year	Activity
	Feb 2007	Location announcement
	June 2007	Groundbreaking
	Spring 2008	Office and hangar to be completed
	(In design phase)	Production facility to be completed

Green Building Features (initial list):

Highly reflective roof will reduce heat gain in the building, reducing cooling needed
Dual-paned low-e glass windows will reduce the amount of solar heat gain.
Exterior steel wall panels will have almost 30% recycled content. Little or no jobsite waste will be generated, as the panels are fabricated to specific dimensions at the factory.
Concrete slab and footings will have fly ash content of up to 25% resulting in energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Structural steel will be US steel with guaranteed 25% to 90% recycled content.
It is anticipated that approximately 75% of construction waste, such as concrete, glass, drywall, and steel, which typically ends up in the landfill, will be recycled.
Materials and finishes and building components will be specified based on proximity to the job site to reduce emissions from truck traffic. Honda specifies products from manufacturers who are committed to producing their products in an environmentally responsible manner.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company Advances Toward Production of HondaJet, Three North American Aviation Companies Become Key Suppliers

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 04:56:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., (HACI) today announced agreements with GKN Aerospace - Alabama, Avcorp Industries, Inc., and Garmin International Inc., as major component suppliers for the HondaJet advanced light jet, to be produced¹ at a state-of-the-art plant in Greensboro, North Carolina.

GKN, of Tallassee, Alabama, will supply the fuselage structural sub-assembly; Garmin, of Olathe, Kansas, will supply a state-of-the-art avionics system specifically tailored for HondaJet; and Avcorp, of Delta, British Columbia, Canada, will supply HondaJet's wing structural sub-assembly.
"We are pleased to be entering into collaboration with some of North America's top aviation industry suppliers, as we continue to focus on developing an innovative aircraft of the absolute highest quality for our customers," said Michimasa Fujino, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "The sourcing of these key components from suppliers in the U.S. and Canada is consistent with Honda's philosophy of producing products close to the customer."

Honda Aircraft Company on February 9 announced plans to establish its world headquarters and jet plant in Greensboro, North Carolina, with construction of new facilities at Piedmont Triad International airport. Scheduled to open late this year, the 215,000 square foot headquarters will be the center of all activity related to HondaJet, including type certification, all sales, marketing and service support activity, and continued research and development activities. HACI expects to employ more than 300 associates at its headquarters and manufacturing facilities once the plant reaches full production.

The HACI production facility, to be built adjacent to the headquarters, will handle production of HondaJet, including final assembly of all structural components and parts, aircraft system assembly and installation, completion of the interior, and painting. The Greensboro production facility is scheduled to begin deliveries to customers in 2010.

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. and HondaJet

Greensboro-based Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is responsible for the continued development, certification and production of HondaJet, as well as all marketing, sales and service support.

HondaJet, Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, lives up to the company's reputation for superior fuel efficiency, delivering 30-35 percent better cruising fuel efficiency than comparable jets, along with a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots (450 mph) and a more spacious cabin with room for up to eight people. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations.

The decision to commercialize HondaJet was announced in July 2006, followed by the August 4, 2006, establishment of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. The company has received more than 100 customer orders for the $3.65 million HondaJet since its launch, October 17, 2006. The HondaJet production facility will become Honda's seventeenth major manufacturing plant in North America, including two currently under construction in Indiana and in Ontario, Canada.

¹ produced using domestic and globally sourced parts

HondaJet: Remarks by Michimasa Fujino, President & CEO, Honda Aircraft Company, Inc.

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 23:00:00 -0800

Thank you, Jeffrey, and good morning everyone. Thank you for joining us this morning at the home of HondaJet. As you have waited for this day, I too, have been waiting - for a long time!

For the last five years, Greensboro has served as our home, as we have worked to take the dream of HondaJet from the drawing board to the sky. It was a very challenging journey that we began in 2001... right here in this facility. In fact, we assembled and tested HondaJet inside these walls.

Also, HondaJet took its very first flight from this airport on December 3, 2003, exactly two weeks before the 100th anniversary of the Wright brother's first flight. So, I would like to say, very humbly, that North Carolina -- the birthplace of aviation -- is also the birthplace of the HondaJet.

In this sense, I think it is best to announce our future plans for HondaJet in Greensboro and inside this facility. Today, I am very pleased and honored to announce our plans to establish the world headquarters of Honda Aircraft Company right here in Greensboro.

We will begin with the construction of a new, 215,000-square foot, headquarters facility. This new facility will become the center of our company's worldwide activity in the realm of aviation.

This includes the continued development of HondaJet, as well as sales, marketing and service, and also research for future technical development. The people working in this facility will be very high-skilled individuals with backgrounds in aeronautical engineering and other technical areas.

In addition to our new world headquarters, I am also pleased to announce today that Greensboro will be the home to a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant for the production of HondaJet. Now we are moving steadily toward our goal of delivering the first HondaJet in 2010.

We are now working very hard to define the exact specifications of this new plant... including size, production capacity and capital investment. So, I ask that you please be patient with us as we work to finalize these plans. We look forward to sharing more information in the very near future.

These Greensboro facilities will be responsible for HondaJet's continued evolution from a prototype aircraft to a full fledged production airplane... one that sets new standards for performance, quality and comfort in the very light jet and light jet market.

These new facilities will also serve as delivery centers for HondaJet. I am a little bit excited to imagine that all of our customers from around the U.S. - and eventually from around the world - will come here to Greensboro to accept delivery of their HondaJet.

In order to achieve our goals for HondaJet, and to ensure a product of the highest quality and value to our customers, there were many things we needed to consider in locating these operations.

In a sense, I am very fortunate that we found in Greensboro and North Carolina a place and a people who share in our vision and our values. This is a place with a long-term vision for economic growth and prosperity.

Of course, there were important issues we had to consider, such as good support from the airport for our operation and testing activity, good weather characteristics, a good business and living environment, accessibility and good shipping logistics such as an overnight air freight hub location.

Other important issues were the quality of people and resources for training. Like all great endeavors, it is the people who will determine ultimate success.

Here again, we were very pleased to find good investments being made in basic education, local schools, worker training and advanced learning, including the activities taking place in North Carolina's research triangle.

Going forward, we will also establish a relationship with Guilford Technical College for the education and training of future Honda Aircraft Company associates.

Together with positive economic momentum and many new businesses coming to North Carolina, it is my strong hope that our project and Honda Aircraft Company could make a positive contribution to this community.

As you know, Honda is producing a variety of innovative products automobiles, motorcycles, and power products all these products speak for themselves about the spirit of Honda innovation. But today, I can not be so quiet.

HondaJet employs many advanced technologies. As you can see for yourself, HondaJet employs a new concept called an over-the-wing engine mount configuration. This reduces drag at high speeds and provides for a more spacious cabin and luggage area.

Also, HondaJet employs advanced aerodynamics, called natural laminar flow technology. Both the fuselage nose and wing employ this design that further improves efficiency. Finally HondaJet's fuselage structure is made entirely of composite materials, which reduces weight as well as manufacturing cost.

Together, these features help provide HondaJet with 30-35 percent greater fuel efficiency, 10 percent higher cruise speed, and more cabin and luggage space compared to conventional jets in this class.

Finally, as with all Honda products, we are committed to delivering a jet of the very highest quality. This is our basic commitment to our customers, our business partners and the communities where we do business.

I proposed the HondaJet project to our management in 1997. After the project was accepted, I was looking for a facility location in the United States in 1999. I visited various places all over the United States by myself. But I still remember that when I landed at Greensboro, I immediately felt something here. This inspiration was similar to what I had when I drew the very first sketch of the HondaJet. I felt the energy of Greensboro, and I also found people who love aviation from their heart and I really appreciate the warm hospitality of the people here.

Since that time, I met many people who have supported our life and family. All the support we have received from the people of Greensboro has been a big encouragement for me. I know many of our associates have a similar feeling.

So, now, is the time for the HondaJet team to respond to your kindness and start another challenge and venture with the people of this community and state. Today, at the Honda Aircraft Company, we are planting our feet firmly on the ground in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Thank you very much.

HondaJet: Honda Aircraft Company to Establish World Headquarters and Production Facility in Greensboro, North Carolina

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 23:00:00 -0800

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced plans to establish its world headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, with construction of a new 215,000 square foot headquarters facility and hangar at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) airport. The company also confirmed plans to manufacture its advanced light jet, HondaJet, at a new plant to be constructed adjacent to its new headquarters. Further details about the production facility, including the size, scope of operations and construction timetable, will be announced at a later date. Honda plans to begin delivery of HondaJet to customers in 2010.

Initial investment for construction of the new headquarters facility and hangar will be about $40 million, plus approximately $20 million for equipment, bringing the total initial investment to $60 million. Details of additional investment for the HondaJet manufacturing facility will be announced at a later date.

Total Honda Aircraft Company employment, including all engineering, sales and marketing, manufacturing and support activities, will increase to more than 300 associates by the time the manufacturing plant reaches full capacity.

"For five years, Greensboro has served as the home of HondaJet, as we have worked to take our dream from the drawing board to the sky," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "As we move steadily toward certification, production and delivery to our customers, I am excited that Greensboro will be home both to our company's world headquarters and the production of HondaJet."

Honda Aircraft Company's new headquarters will serve as the home for all HondaJet research, product engineering, sales and marketing, and service support, and will replace the company's existing 32,000 square foot hangar and office complex, also located at PTI airport. Construction of the new facility, to include a 147,000 square foot airplane hangar and approximately 68,000 square feet of office space, will begin immediately, and is scheduled to be completed in November of this year.

HondaJet employs a number of innovative new technologies and design features - including an all composite fuselage and a unique over-the-wing engine mount (OTWEM) configuration - to set new standards for performance, comfort and quality in the growing "light jet" segment of the market.

Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft lives up to the company's reputation for superior fuel efficiency, delivering 30-35 percent better cruising fuel efficiency than comparable jets, along with a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots (450 mph) and a more spacious cabin with room for up to eight people. The customer base for HondaJet is composed of owner-pilots, corporate travel operators and air taxi companies. In November, Popular Science magazine selected HondaJet as the winner of the publication's 2006 "Best of What's New" award in the Aviation & Space category.

All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations. The decision to commercialize HondaJet was announced in July 2006, followed by the establishment of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. on August 4, 2006. The company has received well more than 100 customer orders for the $3.65 million HondaJet since its launch on October 17, 2006.

The HondaJet production facility will become Honda's seventeenth major manufacturing plant in North America, including two currently under construction in Indiana and Ontario, Canada. Honda already has a major North Carolina manufacturing facility, near Swepsonville, producing general purpose engines, lawn mowers and other power equipment products. The $188 million facility, opened in 1984, employs 580 associates and has the capacity to produce 2 million engines and 380,000 lawn mowers annually.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. was founded in Japan in 1948. Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. The company has invested more than $8.5 billion in its North American operations, with employment of more than 33,000 associates and annual purchases of more than $16 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America. Nearly 80 percent of the Honda and Acura automobiles purchased by U.S. consumers in 2006 were manufactured ¹ by Honda plants in North America.

¹ Honda products are produced using domestic and globally-sourced parts

HondaJet: HondaJet Named Winner of Popular Science's 2006

Tue, 07 Nov 2006 15:08:21 -0800

HondaJet, an advanced light jet that went on sale last month, has been selected by Popular Science magazine as the winner of the publication's 2006 "Best of What's New" Award in the Aviation & Space category. The HondaJet was chosen from among dozens of aviation products for its breakthrough design and innovative features, representing a significant step forward in its category.

"We're honored that HondaJet was selected for this respected award," said Michimasa Fujino, who led the HondaJet development team and is now president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "Our objective was to design and develop an advanced light jet that would create new value for personal and business aviation. We appreciate this award recognizing our success in creating something truly innovative."

HondaJet, which recently entered the "very light jet" market, features several innovations that help it achieve far better fuel efficiency, larger cabin and luggage space and higher cruise speed than conventional aircraft in its class. Innovations include a patented over-the-wing engine-mount, a natural-laminar flow (NLF) wing and fuselage nose, and an advanced all-composite fuselage structure.

Each year, the editors of Popular Science review thousands of products in search of the top 100 tech innovations of the year; breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories. The winners - the Best of What's New - are awarded inclusion in the much-anticipated December issue of Popular Science, the most widely read issue of the year since the debut of Best of What's New in 1987. Best of What's New awards are presented to 100 new products and technologies in 10 categories: Automotive, Aviation & Space, Computing, Engineering, Gadgets, General Innovation, Home Entertainment, Home Tech, Personal Health and Recreation.

The result of 20 years of aviation research, HondaJet's NLF wing and NLF fuselage nose were developed through extensive analyses and wind-tunnel testing. These designs help HondaJet achieve low drag. Its patented over-the-wing engine-mount configuration helps eliminate the need for a structure to mount the engines to the rear fuselage, maximizing space in the fuselage for passengers and luggage. By determining the optimal position for the engines, the over-the-wing mount actually reduces drag at high speed to improve fuel efficiency.

The advanced all-composite fuselage structure consists of a combination of honeycomb sandwich structure and co-cured stiffened panels, reducing weight and manufacturing costs. HondaJet is also outfitted with a state-of-the-art all-glass flight deck with an integrated avionics system that displays all information digitally on a high resolution flat display, and also has an autopilot function.

Founded in 1872, Popular Science is the world's largest science and technology magazine; with a circulation of 1.45 million and 6.5 million monthly readers. Each month, Popular Science reports on the intersection of science and everyday life, with an eye toward what's new and why it matters. Popular Science is published by Time4 Media, a subsidiary of Time Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc.

Based in Greensboro, N.C, Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is pursuing FAA type certification and production certification for its advanced light jet, with the goal of completing certification in three to four years, followed by the start of production in the U.S. and delivery of the first plane in 2010. The company began accepting sales orders last month.

To learn more about HondaJet, please visit www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Sales of HondaJet Off to Impressive Start After 3-day NBAA Convention

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 16:36:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company today announced that it received well over 100 individual customer orders with deposits for the $3.65 million HondaJet during the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Orlando, Florida. The company began sales of its advanced light jet on October 17 and has experienced demand in excess of expectations over three days of sales.

"We are extremely pleased with the early customer response to HondaJet. In addition to the strong demand we have experienced from individuals, we are negotiating with a number of fleet customers as well," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Co., Inc. "Due to this overwhelming response, we are now considering an increase in our production plan to meet the needs of our customers."

HondaJet will be produced by the Honda Aircraft Company at a dedicated manufacturing facility in the United States. Toward this end, on October 11 of this year, the company submitted its application for type certification of HondaJet with the Federal Aviation Administration.

Setting new standards for performance, quality and comfort, HondaJet introduces a series of new technologies that signify a revolutionary departure from conventional light jet designs. Its most unique and recognizable feature - the over-the-wing engine mount (OTWEM) configuration - liberates precious fuselage space for increased room in the cabin and cargo stowage, while significantly reducing aerodynamic drag at high speeds for major improvements in performance and fuel efficiency.

HondaJet features a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots with an IFR range of 1180 nautical miles , and a 30-35 percent gain in fuel efficiency at cruise speed versus other jets of comparable performance. HondaJet's luxuriously-appointed cabin is about 1-foot longer than even larger light jets and features a fully-private lavatory.

"Clearly, our customers understand that HondaJet creates new value by combining class-leading speed, comfort and fuel efficiency... matched by the promise of Honda's reputation for the highest quality," said Fujino.

A sales network incorporating five regional sales groups has been established for sales of HondaJet - HondaJet East, HondaJet Southeast, HondaJet Midwest, HondaJet Southwest and HondaJet Northwest - operating 14 offices around the country to provide HondaJet customers with a superior sales and ownership experience. The company will also establish a network of service facilities within 90-minutes flight time from any location in the U.S.

About Honda Aircraft Company, Inc.

Headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina, Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. is a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and was established in August 2006 to oversee certification, production, sales and service of HondaJet. More information about HondaJet including complete specifications is available at www.hondajet.com.

HondaJet: Remarks by Michimasa Fujino President & CEO Honda Aircraft Company, Inc.

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 16:05:00 -0700

Today, Honda takes another step toward the market introduction of HondaJet. Since we announced the commercialization of HondaJet at Oshkosh, we have been moving at a hectic pace. We established a new company, the Honda Aircraft Company in Greensboro, North Carolina, to oversee further development, marketing, production, sales and service of HondaJet.

And, after we announced at Oshkosh, I received many congratulatory notes and emails. Not only from customers but also from American friends working for other airframe manufacturers and from colleagues at NASA and the FAA. I have always appreciated the fairness and generosity of American people toward persons who keep challenging to create something new. So today, I am very honored to share this moment with you.

Over the last two and a half years, we conducted flight testing to validate HondaJet's design and performance. Based on these tests and extensive market studies, we went from a prototype aircraft to achieving the specifications of the production HondaJet.

HondaJet now offers a maximum speed of 420kt with fuel efficiency that is about 30-to-35 percent better at cruise than those of similar size jets. We achieved this level of efficiency without any compromise to the HondaJet concept. That means offering a superior combination of high speed performance and high fuel efficiency at the same time.

As for range performance, HondaJet's VFR range is 1400nm, and IFR range is 1180 nm. Based on our extensive market analysis, this covers the majority of the business and private use for this class of jet.

By employing the unique over-the-wing-engine mount design, HondaJet is also able to provide a new level of passenger comfort and utility. Cabin length is best-in-class and also baggage capacity is much larger than the competition.

Today, we are very excited to showcase the interior concept of HondaJet for the very first time. Please take a look at this early concept interior mock-up for the HondaJet standard configuration. In addition, to satisfy strong demand from air-taxi operators, we will provide HondaJet in an eight seat "air taxi" configuration as well. The HondaJet also features the advanced GE-Honda HF-120 engine and also a true state-of-the-art Garmin avionics package.

Based on these specifications and functions, we believe HondaJet offers a new dimension of performance, comfort and quality. In this sense, we can not only compare HondaJet favorably to the very light jet market, but also to the light jet market as well.

After very thorough cost analysis, we finalized the price of the standard configuration of HondaJet you see here today, at $3.65 million dollars. We feel this combination of price, performance and function places HondaJet in a very strong and unique position in the market. We will be accessible to owner-operators and corporate charter customers as well as the growing air taxi market.

Just like I challenged for airplane design, we are now committed to creating an innovative sales and service network. Today, we are announcing that HondaJet will be sold through five regional sales groups in the U.S. divided by geographic area: HondaJet East, HondaJet Southeast, HondaJet Midwest, HondaJet Southwest, and HondaJet Northwest. Together, these groups will operate as many as 14 separate dealer facilities.

We believe this will result in a more personal level of sales, service and customer support. We will be working with our retail partners to ensure that every HondaJet customer receives unprecedented levels of customer service in the purchase and ownership of HondaJet. In support of this concept, we have also established a fleet sales group to offer better customized service for fleet operators such as air-charter, air-taxi, and fractional ownership. Fleet sales will be provided through direct sales by Honda Aircraft Company.

With regard to service, we are targeting a new level of convenience and customer support. This includes the establishment of dedicated service facilities within 90 minutes flight time from any location in the U.S. While we are still early in the development of this plan, we are fully committed to creating a truly first-class ownership experience from sales, service and support to pilot training.

Finally, we took another important step on October 11 ... when Honda Aircraft Company submitted its application with the FAA for type-certification of HondaJet. As previously announced, we will produce HondaJet in the U.S. and have targeted delivery of the first jet in 2010.

I recall that it was 1986 when I attended NBAA for the first time. If my memory is correct, it was held in Anaheim, California. I was a young aerospace engineer just out of college. There is no such event as NBAA in Japan. So, I vividly remember that, when I entered into the exhibition center, I was struck by the gorgeous exhibits ... and I was struck by the stunning business jets. From that time, it has been my dream to bring a jet I designed to this magnificent show.

Twenty years later, I am very proud to present to you the results of Honda's dream to enter the aviation industry. Now, I will do my best to deliver an aircraft of outstanding performance and quality to all our customers.

Today, HondaJet sales truly take flight! Thank you very much.

HondaJet: Remarks by Takeo Fukui President & CEO Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 15:54:00 -0700

Two years ago, I came to NBAA in Las Vegas ... to announce Honda's entry into the field of aviation through the formation of GE-Honda Aero. Today, we are pleased to take another significant step ... entering a new dimension of mobility ... by starting sales of HondaJet ... a new advanced light jet of our own design.

Aviation has long been a dream for Honda. I recall as a very young engineer in 1969, I was working overtime late at night ... when I heard a strange, high pitched engine sound. Then, I saw an odd looking car moving slowly through the research lab. It was powered by a turbine engine under study by a team of Honda engineers. From the standpoint of technology ... this research project had no relation to the HondaJet we introduce today. But ... in a spiritual sense ... I guess you could say it was the first HondaJet.

The point is ... even as Honda grew from a motorcycle maker into an automaker ... and a leading producer of power equipment products ... our vision was as a mobility company, and we always kept one eye on the sky. It has been more or less 40 years of continuous challenges.

This personal passion for aviation started with the founder of Honda Motor Company ... Soichiro Honda. And it continued with every former CEO of our company. They all helped keep the dream alive. In fact, I would say their passion was much stronger than my own. For me, launching sales of HondaJet is not such an emotional decision.

A passion for aviation propelled HondaJet into the air, but a strong business case is what is taking it to the customer. And I am very confident in the success of this project. In every one of our business activities ... our goal is to create new value for the customer. And HondaJet meets this challenging objective. Simply and frankly, we would not have taken this step to commercialize HondaJet unless it created new value for aviation customers.

We began focused research in the field of aviation with two different research projects -- 20 years ago. One project studied turbine jet engines. The other focused on the aircraft. Today, powered by the HF 120 engine of GE-Honda Aero ... HondaJet represents the powerful synergy of those efforts.

Throughout our corporate history, it has been a hallmark of Honda to develop original technology for the benefit of our customers and society. I see the development of HondaJet as yet another positive demonstration that the challenging spirit of Honda still exists in our engineers today.

At the same time, while we believe in the importance of original technology, we have always involved strategic partners where it provides value for the customer. So, we are pleased to have both GE-Honda Aero and Piper Aircraft as strategic partners in this venture. Together we will form a strong team ... that creates new value in the field of aviation.

I want to thank all of you in the aviation community for accepting Honda so warmly into the field of aviation. We are excited to join this industry. And we look forward to making a valued contribution.

Finally, one month from today marks the 100 year anniversary of the birth of Mr. Honda. Today's launch of HondaJet is a great way to celebrate his spirit of challenge and innovation.

Thank you.

HondaJet: Honda Begins Sales of its HondaJet Advanced Light Jet

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 09:37:00 -0700

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. today began sales of HondaJet at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention with the announcement of the price, specifications, and a sales and service network for the production version of its advanced light jet. Scheduled to go into production in the U.S. in 2010, pricing is set at $3.65 million for HondaJet in its standard configuration.

Honda also took another step toward the market introduction of HondaJet with the announcement that it submitted, on October 11, its application for FAA type certification of HondaJet. The company anticipates achieving both type and production certification within 3 to 4 years.

"A passion for aviation propelled HondaJet into the air, but a strong business case is what is taking it to the customer," said Takeo Fukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "In every one of our business activities, our goal is to create new value for the customer. HondaJet meets this challenging objective."

Key specifications and performance figures establish HondaJet as the fastest and most fuel efficient aircraft in its class, while setting a new standard for interior space and comfort. HondaJet features a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots with an IFR range of 1180 nautical miles , and a 30-35 percent gain in fuel efficiency at cruise speed versus other jets of comparable performance. HondaJet's cabin is about 1-foot longer than even larger 'light jet' offerings and features a fully-private lavatory along with a spacious 57-cubic foot aft cargo hold.

Sales and Service Network

HondaJet will be sold through five regional sales groups - HondaJet East, HondaJet Southeast, HondaJet Midwest, HondaJet Southwest and HondaJet Northwest - operating 14 offices around the country to provide HondaJet customers' with a truly superior sales and ownership experience. The HondaJet dealer network was developed in collaboration with Piper Aircraft, Inc., as a result of a business alliance announced in July 2006. Honda Aircraft Company will also seek to establish a network of service facilities within 90-minutes flight time from any location in the U.S. to further advance its goal of creating a new level of customer service and support.

"Just as we have targeted real innovation with HondaJet design itself, we are equally committed to creating an innovative sales and service network," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. "We will be working with our retail partners to ensure that every HondaJet customer is the recipient of unprecedented levels of sales and service for the life of their ownership experience."

HondaJet Innovation

HondaJet sets new standards for performance, quality and comfort with a series of new technologies and design features that signify a revolutionary departure from conventional light jet designs. It's most unique and recognizable feature - the over-the-wing engine mount (OTWEM) configuration - liberates precious fuselage space by eliminating the carry-through structures of conventional fuselage-mounted engine designs while significantly reducing aerodynamic drag at high speeds. Its natural laminar flow (NLF) wing and fuselage nose further reduce drag, contributing to HondaJet's class-topping speed and fuel efficiency.

HondaJet's all-composite fuselage uses a combination of honeycomb sandwich and stiffened panel structures cured integrally using a patented co-curing process. This unique construction results in lower fuselage weight and larger cabin while contributing to HondaJet's unusually sleek and smooth appearance.

An advanced, customized, all-glass cockpit based on the state-of-the-art Garmin avionics platform, will boast new features and capabilities unique to HondaJet.

HondaJet Performance

With a top speed of 420 knots, a 43,000-foot service ceiling and a 30-35 increase in fuel efficiency versus comparable light jets, HondaJet embodies Honda's commitment to superior efficiency and performance through the application of advanced technology. In addition, HondaJet's optimized control surfaces results in a highly refined, sporty and responsive flying characteristic.

Two GE-Honda HF120 turbofan engines, each rated at 1880 pounds (at take-off thrust) deliver higher fuel efficiency and the lowest engine emissions and quietest operation in their thrust class .

HondaJet Comfort

HondaJet will be offered in two interior configurations: with seating for seven (2 pilots and 5 passengers) in standard configuration; and with seating for eight (2 pilots and six forward-facing passenger seats) in air taxi configuration.

HondaJet's cabin offers its passengers unprecedented levels of comfort with as much as six inches more leg room (per passenger) than competitive offerings. HondaJet's 57 cubic-foot aft cargo hold is as much as 50 percent larger than other jets in its class. Additional cargo storage is provided by a nine cubic-foot nose cargo hold.

HondaJet Quality

HondaJet was developed with Honda's legendary commitment to quality and world-class engineering. Attention to detail in every aspect of its design, testing and construction ensures an aircraft of the highest quality and design integrity. To date, HondaJet has logged more than 260 hours of in-flight testing with superior results.

Production Plans

HondaJet will be produced in the United States beginning in 2010 with a projected production volume of 70 jets per year. The company will maintain a significant degree of flexibility in its production plan and will continue to evaluate demand as it moves closer to actual production.

About Honda Aircraft Company, Inc.

Headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina, Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. is a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co. Ltd., established in August 2006 to oversee certification, production, sales and service of HondaJet. More information about HondaJet including complete specifications is available at www.hondajet.com.

About Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda is the world's largest engine manufacturer, producing more than 21 million products annually at more than 120 factories around the world. Honda products cover a broad spectrum of categories, from automobiles, motorcycles and motor scooters to all-terrain vehicles, marine engines, general purpose engines and power equipment products. Widely recognized for its world-class engineering and technology development, the company is responsible for innumerable product and technology firsts, including the first and only U.S. EPA-certified hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (Honda FCX) and America's first gas-electric hybrid vehicle (Honda Insight).

HondaJet: HondaJet Goes on Sale at National Business Aviation Association Convention

Wed, 27 Sep 2006 08:56:00 -0700

HondaJet, an innovative advanced light jet, will go on sale for the first time at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting and convention, October 17-19 in Orlando, Florida. HondaJet, featuring a revolutionary over-the-wing engine mount and other technical advances, will be exhibited at booth #5495 along with a full-scale interior mock up display. A news conference will be held at the HondaJet booth Tuesday, October 17 at 10:30 a.m.

Members of the HondaJet development team and newly created sales team will be on hand throughout the convention, including Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., the leader of the development team.

Honda previously announced that the 6- to 7-passenger HondaJet will enter the very light jet market and begin accepting orders in fall 2006. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. was established in August 2006, for the development, production and sales of HondaJet, and will pursue FAA type certification and production certification in the U.S. Honda Aircraft Company's goal is to complete certification of HondaJet in three to four years, followed by the start of production and delivery of the first plane in 2010.

HondaJet features several innovations that help it achieve far better fuel efficiency, larger cabin and luggage space and higher cruise speed than conventional aircraft in its class. Innovations include a patented over-the-wing engine-mount, a natural-laminar flow (NLF) wing and fuselage nose, and an advanced all-composite fuselage structure.

The 59th Annual NBAA meeting and convention will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, October 17, 18 and 19. To learn more about NBAA, visit www.nbaa.org. For more information on HondaJet visit honda.com.

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