Transportation

Honda's first ever jet has some impressive features

Danielle Muoio

2015-12-28T19:44:26Z

Honda seriously diversified its offerings when it began deliveries of the HondaJet, a light-weight aircraft, last week.

The HondaJet has been a $2 billion, 30-years-in-the-making project, according to Forbes. But after more than 3,000 hours of flight testing in 70 locations, Michimasa Fujino, the founding president and CEO of the Honda Aircraft Company, got the HondaJet off the ground.

The HondaJet received Part 23 certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Dec. 9, giving Honda the go-ahead to put the innovative jet into production. One unnamed customer already got the HondJet for Christmas, according to Autoblog.

Its features rival others in the small aircraft field. Here's a closer look at the HondaJet:

The HondaJet is the fastest in its class, reaching a maximum cruise speed of 483 miles per hour at 30,000 feet.

The jet's engines are built over the wings, which reduces the aircraft's noise emission.

The HondaJet is rated the highest in fuel efficiency in its class, requiring just over 160 gallons of fuel for 600 nautical miles long range cruise. Other jets in its class require between 185 to 200 gallons for the same distance.

The HondaJet also emits less nitrogen dioxide than other light business jets.

The cockpit was designed to give the pilot more space and visibility.

It comes with dual touchscreen controllers and three 14-inch displays that offer navigation, flight planning, and control. The cockpit allows for one or two pilots.

The cabin allows for four people to sit comfortably with the option to include a side-facing fifth seat. Because the engines are mounted over the wings, the plane offers more cargo space — a total of 66 cubic feet. The seats can slide along a track the length of the cabin to expand passengers' leg room.

There's also a private lavatory with a flushing toilet and sink.

The aircraft costs $4.5 million and can be purchased at a HondaJet dealer. There are dealers in North America, South America, and Europe. There are a total of 53 dealers in the United States.

Aircraft Transportation