Honda Aircraft Company has officially commenced production of the first HondaJet Echelon test unit with the assembly of the aircraft's wing structure in Greensboro, North Carolina. Scheduled for its maiden flight in 2026, the HondaJet Echelon will feature a larger cabin, increased passenger capacity, and extended range compared to previous HondaJet models, introducing the award-winning design to a new segment of the aviation market.
Honda Aircraft Company's production department began implementing specialised assembly lines in early 2024, completing tooling installation by the end of the year. With work now underway on the first major subassembly of the HondaJet Echelon, the programme has entered its next phase of development. The company is producing test articles to advance the design in preparation for aircraft certification.
In January 2025, the Honda Aircraft Company advanced systems integration test facility (ASITF) marked a significant milestone by holding a ceremony to celebrate the completion of the HondaJet Echelon development simulator. This advanced simulator serves multiple functions, including system development testing. Using data from wind tunnel models and real aircraft hardware, the simulator predicts the aircraft's performance in operational conditions, allowing engineers to evaluate critical systems before the test aircraft takes flight.
The HondaJet Echelon is set to become the first light jet with a range capable of non-stop transcontinental flights across the United States, offering 40% greater fuel efficiency than some midsize jets. The new aircraft will introduce innovative product features previously unseen in the HondaJet range while maintaining the high performance and operational efficiency that define the original HondaJet.
