Now that the HondaJet has received FAA and EASA certification and deliveries have begun ramping up, AIN traveled to Honda Aircraft headquarters in Greensboro, N.C., to fly the new jet. Our overall impression after flying both the full-flight simulator and the new jet is that the HondaJet is a strong performer with excellent handling characteristics and an intense focus on single-pilot ergonomics and safety.
The cockpit and the Garmin G3000 flight deck are well thought out for both highly experienced jet pilots and pilots who are transitioning into the HondaJet from smaller airplanes. Cockpit procedures follow an ideal logical flow, with comprehensive yet simplified checklists helping pilots manage their flying efficiently and safely.
The HondaJet feels like a larger jet—its firm and positive handling characteristics are not too light but well harmonized and just right for this size airplane. Performance is better than originally projected by Honda Aircraft, and we saw a maximum cruise speed of 423 ktas at FL330, three knots above the previously published 420-knot max cruise number (and the number that gave the HondaJet its HA-420 model designation).
The GE Honda Aero HF120 engines deliver smooth and rapid acceleration on takeoff and a climb rate of nearly 4,000 fpm through 4,000 feet. We climbed to the maximum altitude of FL430, although not directly, and fuel flow was just 610 pph and speed settled at 332 ktas.
During landing, the HondaJet again felt like a larger airplane, with little tendency to float and a firm touchdown and smooth rollout, with no need to engage the anti-skid braking.