Friday, March 29, 2024

New HondaJet Elite II is the fastest and farthest flying aircraft in its class

Honda Aircraft Company has revealed the “HondaJet Elite II” at the 2022 National Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Orlando, Florida. The HondaJet Elite II is the fastest, highest, and farthest flying aircraft in its class, achieving a whole new level of performance and comfort that redefines what it means to be a very light jet.

The Elite II is powered by twin GE Honda Aero Engines HF120s set in an Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration for better performance. In addition, the nose, wing, and composite fuselage are constructed for Natural Laminar Flow (NLF). All these advancements contribute to the aircraft’s superior performance, unparalleled efficiency, and maximized fuselage space, making the aircraft’s cabin the largest in its class.

The Elite II has an extended range of 1,547 nautical miles (2,865 km) thanks to its increased fuel capacity and has a maximum cruise speed of 422 KTAS (782 km/h). In addition, the jet has an increased gross weight of 11,100 lb (5,035 kg), so it can carry more cargo over a longer distance.

Honda says the aircraft will have the highly customized HondaJet avionics suite based on the Garmin G3000 integrated flight deck. The system will have Stabilized Approach that assists the pilot with aural and visual alerts to maintain a stable aircraft state on approach, an Autothrottle to reduce pilot workload through the automation of power management based on desired flight characteristics, and Garmin Emergency Autoland that activates in an emergency situation to autonomously control and land the aircraft without human intervention. Autothrottle and Autoland systems will be available on the aircraft next year.

Also, there is a new Ground Spoiler that optimizes takeoff and landing field performance with increased weight. The aircraft features a fully redesigned cabin and the introduction of two new interior design options – Onyx and Steel, featuring new surface materials and colors.

Other features include new aisle flooring with hardwood herringbone and plank patterns, acoustic enhancement, additional 3-inches of legroom configuration available for crew seat with extended seat track, LED lighting with soft indigo nighttime setting, Ground illumination on the main entry door, and integrated exterior lights.

Outside, the Elite II introduces a bold new Black Edition paint scheme that further differentiates the ramp appeal of the aircraft.

“The HondaJet Elite II once again pushes the boundaries of its category on all fronts of performance, comfort, and style,” said Hideto Yamasaki, President & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. “We are also excited to take our aircraft forward on the journey of automation by bringing new technologies to the market next year.”

The company says the FAA certification for the Elite II is imminent, and the aircraft will have a price tag of $6.95 million.