Honda Aircraft Company revealed “HondaJet Echelon” as the official name of its new light jet at 2023 National Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). A mockup of the HondaJet Echelon will stand alongside the HondaJet Elite II at 2023 NBAA-BACE from 17-19 Oct, marking the first time Honda Aircraft Company has presented both pillars of its product family side-by-side.

The HondaJet Echelon, previously introduced as the HondaJet 2600 Concept in 2021, offeris a mid-sized jet experience in the light jet category. The aircraft is designed to be the world’s first single-pilot light jet capable of nonstop transcontinental flight across the United States. This offering targets a reduction in operating costs and creates an owner experience previously unattainable.

The design of the HondaJet Echelon incorporates electrification and automation of its systems, leading towards augmented pilot capabilities, reduced workload, and enhanced safety.

The aircraft is set to deliver unmatched fuel efficiency through aerodynamic innovations to outperform conventional light jets on typical missions by up to 20% and mid-sized jets by more than 40%. As a premium addition to the HondaJet family, the HondaJet Echelon will also feature a holistic focus on the cabin experience encompassing space, comfort, and productivity.

On 13 Jun 2023, Honda Aircraft Company announced its decision to commercialize the new fuel-efficient light jet, along with the identification of key suppliers. (Earlier post.)

The development of the HondaJet Echelon is well underway having completed several key milestones:

• Installation of the first structural test rig was completed Q4 2021.

• Successful exit of conceptual design and completion of aircraft Preliminary Design Review (PDR).

• The official power-on ceremony for the HondaJet Echelon’s Advanced Systems Integration Test Facility (ASITF) at the company’s Greensboro, NC world headquarters on 30 August 2023.

• The detailed design of the aircraft is well underway, targeting an aircraft level Critical Design Review (CDR) summer 2024, with select long lead fabrication already in progress.

HondaJet Echelon Specifications

Production of the HondaJet Echelon will take place within the existing footprint of Honda Aircraft Company’s facility at its global headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina. Early build processes are scheduled to begin in 2024. The first flight is planned for 2026, followed by type certification anticipated in 2028.