Honda Aircraft Company is planning the launch of its HondaJet 2600 Concept aircraft in 2028. The new jet, which was first revealed at the 2021 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), will be powered by two over-the-wing-mounted Williams International FJ44-4C turbofans and equipped with Garmin GS3000 avionics.
Capable of a maximum cruise speed of 450ktas, the new jet will be able to carry one crew and 10 passengers or two crew and nine passengers. The aircraft’s range with one crew and four passengers is predicted to be 2,625nm. Aiming to be the first light jet capable of nonstop US transcontinental flight, the new design, will have a maximum cruise altitude of FL470 (47,000ft). Cabin altitude is cited as 6,363ft.
After type certification expected in 2028, the new product line will be offered alongside the manufacturer’s very light jet model, the HondaJet Elite II.
A key element of the design is its ability to deliver “unparalleled fuel efficiency”, according to the manufacturer. The new light jet is said to cut carbon emissions by achieving up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared with typical light jets and more than 40% better fuel efficiency than medium-sized jets during a typical mission.
Hideto Yamasaki, president and CEO, Honda Aircraft said the commercialisation of the new aircraft will “expand the potential of people’s lives” and marks a new chapter for the manufacturer. “By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the programme with sustainability a key element throughout,” he said.
The cockpit of the new jet features autothrottle, autobrake, Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS) and Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS).
Delivering 3,600lbs of thrust, the Williams FJ44-4C turbofans also power the Cessna Citation CJ4 and Pilatus PC-24. The Williams FJ33 turbofan, which powers the Vision Jet, delivers about 1,846lbs of thrust.
In addition to partnerships with Williams for the engines and Garmin for the electronics, Honda is working with Aernnova for aerostructures and components and Spirit AeroSystems for the fuselage. Construction of the airframes is said to be underway.
Meanwhile, Wichita-based Spirit AeroSystems confirmed its partnership covering its build-to-print composite fuselage and a composite bonded frame. Alex Bellamy, vice president of Regional and Business Jet Programs, Spirit AeroSystems said: “This agreement expands our Regional and Business Jet portfolio and is a testament to our expertise in advanced materials and processes.”
HondaJet 2006 Concept – at a glance
- Engines: Two Williams International FJ44-4C
- Avionics: Garmin GS3000
- Configuration: one crew and 10 passengers or two crew and nine pax
- Max cruise speed: 450 KTAS
- NBAA IFR range (one crew and four pax): 2,625nm
- Max cruise altitude: FL470
- Sustainability: Claimed to deliver up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared with typical light jets and over 40% better than medium-sized jets.
