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The story of HondaJet’s architect Michimasa Fujino and his long journey from initial concept in the late 1980s to proof of concept in 2005 and finally certification is one of determination and patient perseverance. The founding CEO of Honda Aircraft
Company (HACI), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, was given the reins to pursue a research project that led to the clean sheet design of a light business jet that employed an unconventional over-the-wing engine configuration and a composite fuselage.
While the certification program took longer than expected, the timing for a resurgence of interest in this remarkable light jet may be ideal, given the improved economy and steady upticks in aircraft market activity. Following certification in late 2015, 54 aircraft have been delivered. With an airframe that has had time to mature through a decade of development, certification and entry into service, the aircraft is truly finding its legs in the marketplace, especially among owner-operators.
TWIN & TURBINE • 5