Honda Aircraft Company is to commercialise its HondaJet 2600 Concept, for which plans were unveiled at the 2021 NBAA-BACE. This all-new light jet represents a new product line and will be offered alongside the HondaJet Elite II very light jet. The company says it will target type certification in 2028.

This new light jet programme will surpass the performance, comfort and efficiency of typical light jets by providing a medium-sized jet experience. It is designed to be the world's first light jet capable of non-stop transcontinental flight across the US, with a quiet and spacious cabin suited for long range travel and the ability to accommodate up to 11 occupants. The aircraft is also designed for single pilot operation.

Additionally, the jet will deliver up to 20 per cent better fuel efficiency compared to typical light jets and over 40 per cent better fuel efficiency than medium-sized jets during a typical mission.

“The commercialisation of our new light jet represents Honda's next chapter of skyward mobility, which further expands the potential of people's lives,” says president and CEO Hideto Yamasaki. “By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the programme with sustainability as a key element throughout.”

Honda Aircraft Company has identified critical suppliers for the light jet, entering into strategic supplier agreements with Aernnova for aerostructures and components, Garmin for avionics, Spirit AeroSystems for the fuselage and Williams International for engines. Engineering designs are being finalised, with fabrication activities underway.