Honda Aircraft Company is to launch direct sales in Japan from April 1st 2024, replacing its previous strategy of authorised dealerships. The light jet manufacturer is also updating its customer support network in Japan, with the introduction of Japan General Aviation Service (JGAS), as its new Authorized Service Center (ASC) in the region.

 “Honda Aircraft Company has also announced that starting April 1st, 2024, Honda Aircraft Company will transition to a direct sales strategy in Japan,” said the company in a statement this week. “As part of this transition, Honda Aircraft Company will leverage JGAS’ expertise and customer knowledge to support HondaJet sales inquiries in Japan until further notice, with the inquiries being directly managed and fulfilled by Honda Aircraft Company’s sales team.” JGAS will take over the service operations previously managed by Marubeni Aerospace Co.

JGAS’ HondaJet maintenance network spans Japan with facilities in Tokyo and Kagoshima, HondaJet clients will benefit from increased convenience and reduced travel times for service needs, claimed the OEM. Also JGAS’ advanced parts supply system promises swift delivery of parts across the country, it added.

The changes are said to be part of Honda Aircraft Company’s (HAC’s) new worldwide strategy to improve accessibility and efficiency across customer support services.

Hideto Yamasaki, CEO and president, HAC welcomed the new partnership with JGAS, saying it would help to maintain a strong relationship with the HondaJet community in Japan.  “We also extend our deepest gratitude to Marubeni Aerospace for their dedication and service over the years,” said Yamasaki. “The partnership has been instrumental in shaping the HondaJet experience for customers in Japan, and we look forward to building on this legacy with the new partner.”

HAC pledged to deliver a smooth transition and is working to ensure HondaJet customers are fully supported during and after the change “guaranteeing uninterrupted service and support for the local HondaJet community”, it said.

HAC reports a 20% increase in flight activity across Asia last year with Japan leading the region. Worldwide the global fleet has logged more than 210,000 flight hours with over 250 aircraft worldwide.

Meanwhile, don’t miss CJI’s Big Interview with Amod Kelkar, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, HAC in the next edition of Corporate Jet Investor Quarterly.

JGAS’ office in Haneda near Tokyo.