Honda Aircraft Company announced this week that it would commercialise the HondaJet 2600 concept with a view to certification in 2028.
The 11-seat HondaJet 2600 will inherit the company's over-the-wing-engine-mount (OTWEM) concept and have an IFR range of 2625 nm. The concept was first introduced to the business aviation world in October 2021.
“The commercialisation of our new light jet represents Honda’s next chapter of skyward mobility, which further expands the potential of people’s lives,” said Hideto Yamasaki, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company.
“By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the program with sustainability a key element throughout.”
According to Honda, the 2600 will be the first light jet to be capable of crossing the USA from coast to coast non-stop, and is designed for single-pilot operation.
As well as the long legs, the HondaJet 2600 is expected to cruise at 450 KTAS and have a ceiling of 47,000 feet. It will also have a larger cabin pressurised to 6363 feet. Honda believes the aircraft will be 20% more efficient on fuel than typical business jets.
Honda will market the 2600 alongside the smaller HondaJet Elite II.