HondaJet Set to Make Big Entrance into the Private Jet Market

The HA-420 HondaJet is the first aircraft designed and produced by the Honda Motor Company. First conceived in the 90s, the jet made its first flight in 2003. Undergoing many flight testing bumps and delays, Honda redesigned the aircraft and developed a new final-production conforming aircraft which first flew on December 21, 2010.
The HondaJet is an incredibly unique aircraft with a variety of technological advancements being included in the design. With an all-composite body, the fuselage is extremely lightweight, cutting down on fuel costs and environmental impact. Perhaps the most noticeable feature of the light business jet is the over-the-wing podded engine configuration. Although an extremely atypical design, Honda chose this feature in order to increase room within the cabin and decrease overall noise heard by passengers.
Currently undergoing flight testing and FAA certification processes, the HondaJet will begin deliveries in 2012. Accommodating four passengers in club seating, the HondaJet boasts a fully private lavatory with a class-best 66 cubic feet of external baggage storage. With approximately 70 frames being made per year when production ramps up, look for the HondaJet to be a big player in the very light jet category in years to come.