“Honda Aircraft will conclude testing with the FAA in a few days, which will pave the way for HondaJet type certification and entry into service,” said Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. “We are expecting FAA type certification of the world’s most advanced light jet very soon.”

Function and reliability testing simulates typical, in-service flight operations for a new aircraft design. Testing includes takeoffs, landings, system operations, failure cases, approaches, and operations in hot, cold, and humid environments. This ensures the aircraft, including its components and equipment, is reliable and functioning properly. The HondaJet has flown missions to 54 airports in 31 states in the continental United States as part of F&R testing.

In October, Honda Aircraft completed all Part 23 certification flight testing. The flight test program has exceeded 3,000 total flight hours and testing was conducted at more than 70 locations in the U.S.

World tour demonstrated aircraft maturity

This year, the HondaJet completed a successful world tour with the aircraft making its first appearances in Japan, Europe and South America. The world tour, combined with a North American demonstration tour, has demonstrated the aircraft’s maturity, reliability and readiness for entry into service. The HondaJet flew more than 300 total hours in North America, Japan, Europe and South America.

Training Center operational

Since becoming operational in late 2014, the Honda Aircraft Training Center in Greensboro has been preparing to train pilots and maintenance technicians by increasing staff, developing infrastructure and finalizing curriculums.

Honda has partnered with FlightSafety International to develop a program that incorporates the latest technology. This includes enhanced graphic systems and operational day flow (ODF) to allow pilots a seamless transition from the classroom to the cockpit. The HondaJet flight simulator has been certified Interim Level C by the FAA. Following HondaJet type certification, the simulator will be certified Level D and ready for type-rating training.

“Honda Aircraft is not only bringing new value to the market with the HondaJet, but also a higher standard for aircraft ownership” said Fujino. “Together with the HondaJet dealer network, we have built the infrastructure to deliver on our objective, and we are now ready for entry into service.”