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Honda Aircraft Company has established itself as a significant player in the private aviation industry, despite its initial hesitance to enter the market. The company's journey began as a research project in the 1980s, focusing on developing a small business jet using composite materials. The project, led by Michimasa Fujino, saw its first concept finalized in 1997 and later moved to Greensboro, North Carolina, where Honda R&D set up a new facility.
In 2003, Honda completed a proof-of-concept prototype that took its maiden flight in December of that year. To gauge interest and potential success in the market, Fujino showcased the aircraft at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh airshow in 2005. The positive reception prompted Honda to officially form Honda Aircraft Company in 2006 and announce the HA-420 HondaJet program.
The HA-420 HondaJet quickly gained traction within the very light business jet market after its FAA certification in December 2015. More than 250 units have been built, praised for their over-wing engine mount design which reduces cabin noise. This success led to several upgraded variants such as the HondaJet APMG and Elite models.
