First Production HondaJet takes to the skies

First Production HondaJet takes to the skies​

Honda Aircraft Company announced today that the first production HondaJet achieved its initial flight marking another milestone toward aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015. The event took place at the company's world headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina. "With this first flight, the HondaJet program has entered the next exciting phase as we prepare for delivery," said Honda Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. "Today's celebration is the culmination of extensive engineering and production efforts, and this is an important achievement in bringing the world's most advanced lightjet to market."

The first production aircraft lifted off from Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO) at 10:18 am Eastern Daylight Time. During the 84-minute flight, the aircraft climbed to 15,500 feet and reached a speed of 348 knots (True Air Speed). Following a smooth landing, the aircraft and its crew were greeted by more than 1,000 Honda Aircraft team members to commemorate the milestone. The aircraft was flown by test pilot Warren Gould, Pilot in command. The crew completed several checks during the flight including low and high speed handling characteristics, avionics and system functionality including landing gear, flaps and speedbrake operations. The aircraft is finished in the new signature HondaJet paint scheme in a deep pearl green with a gold stripe. The new colour introduction is in addition to to four exterior colour options available to customers which also include, silver, red, yellow and blue.

For more information:

Honda Aircraft Company
Greensboro, NC
www.hondajet.com

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