Cutter Aviation has completed the Advanced Performance Modification Group package (APMG) on a HondaJet HA-420 classic at its Phoenix Sky Harbor authorised service centre.

The modifications included the extension of the horizontal stabiliser, removal of vortex generators on the tail and winglets, elimination of the mid-aileron fence as well as many Garmin G3000 avionics software updates that enhance safety and situational awareness.

The APMG package provides the aircraft with a takeoff field length reduction of 443 ft to 3,491 ft, forward baggage capacity increased by 100 lbs to 200 total, an increased maximum takeoff weight of 10,700 lbs and a 100-mile range improvement resulting in more mission capabilities.

“I was impressed with the APMG HondaJet performance numbers when I was first sent example charts for takeoff, landing and weight and balance,” says Cutter Aviation's HondaJet pilot Taylor Butterfield. “I ran a few scenarios that we fly on a frequent basis. The APMG package gives the HondaJet even more flexibility with payloads and typically allows us to utilise shorter runways for a given mission. That can also translate to allowing us to operate at hotter temperatures and overall higher density altitudes than we could before. I had the opportunity to fly the HondaJet after the modification was complete. Aircraft control feel is improved slightly with added elevator authority while keeping all control pressures nicely balanced. I noticed a reduction in the amount of control pressure needed for takeoff rotation. This is a practical performance enhancement package that makes the aircraft even more flexible, efficient and ultimately more useful.”

Cutter Aviation is a HondaJet authorised sales and service centre with facilities located in Phoenix Sky Harbor, Arizona; and in Dallas and San Antonio, Texas.