Type Inspection Authorization signifies that the HondaJet meets type design requirements and is ready for FAA pilots to perform onboard flight tests required for certification. Nose-to-tail FAA review during this final testing phase will pave the way for HondaJet type certification and the first deliveries to HondaJet customers.

We have been working closely with the FAA to finalize our certification schedule for the HondaJet. Based on the recent FAA type certification of the HF120 turbofan engine and this TIA milestone achievement, we can expect aircraft type certification in the first quarter of 2015 with deliveries following immediately after.

—Michimasa Fujino, president and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company

The Honda Aircraft customer service facility is located at the company’s world headquarters at the Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO) in Greensboro, N.C. Facility aircraft repair and service capabilities under the FAA Part 145 certificate will initially include component-level repairs and will then expand in 2014 to include heavy aircraft maintenance and major repair services to complement the HondaJet dealer network.

The customer service facility opened in October 2013 as an expansion of the company’s world headquarters that also includes state-of-the art R&D, headquarters and production facilities. The facility serves as a corporate base for the company’s customer service organization. In addition to heavy aircraft maintenance and major repair and overhaul work, the customer service team will provide warranty administration; service programs sales and administration; provide 24/7 technical support and training; and develop technical publications from the facility.

The HondaJet is the fastest, highest-flying, quietest, and most fuel-efficient jet in its class. The HondaJet incorporates many technological innovations in aviation design, including the Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that dramatically improves performance and fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag.

The OTWEM design also reduces cabin sound, minimizes ground-detected noise, and allows for the roomiest cabin in its class, the largest baggage capacity, and a fully serviceable private aft lavatory.

The HondaJet is powered by two highly fuel-efficient GE Honda HF120 turbofan jet engines, and is equipped with the most sophisticated glass flight deck available in any light business jet, a Honda-customized Garmin G3000 next-generation, all-glass avionics system composed of three 14-inch landscape-format displays and dual touch-screen controllers. The HondaJet is Honda’s first commercial aircraft.