HondaJet announces new Echelon model with improved performance and efficiency

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HondaJet announces new Echelon model with improved performance and efficiency

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HondaJet HA-480 Echelon | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Apr 6, 2025

The HA-480 Echelon, the newest model of HondaJet, has been introduced as a next-generation aircraft designed to fly across North America. It is expected to reach a maximum cruising speed of 450 KTAS, boasting a range of 2,625 NM and a service ceiling of FL470. This model was debuted at the 2023 NBAA-BACE event and is slated for certification in 2028.

The Echelon continues the legacy of the Honda Aircraft Company, LLC with its over-the-wing engine mount, joining the HA-420 family with enhanced size and speed. Twin & Turbine described the model stating, “This new jet isn’t simply a stretched HondaJet—it represents a clean-sheet design, sharing only a few characteristics like the OTWEM engine configuration and Garmin G3000 avionics.”

The model can accommodate up to eleven passengers with increased luggage space, fulfilling Honda's longstanding ambition to advance business aviation. The official Honda website stated, “Capable of nonstop transcontinental flight across the United States, the HondaJet Echelon is a first-of-its-kind light jet..."

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HondaJet holds 40% of the very light jet market, with annual sales in this category accounting for less than 10% of the business jet market. The company aspires to boost its sales with the Echelon, targeting a yearly sale of 60 units by 2028. Honda Aircraft Company President Hideto Yamasaki mentioned to Japan News, "The technology we have developed as an automobile company will be an advantage for us."

Further developments bring in advanced avionics and enhanced flight efficiency in the Echelon model. The President emphasized, “We would like to emphasize the Echelon’s advantage in terms of high fuel efficiency..."

Historically, Honda began its journey into aviation research in 1986, culminating in its first successful flight in 2003. Overcoming substantial commercialization challenges, HondaJet achieved type certification in 2015 and has delivered 250 aircraft to date. As Yamasaki stated, “The aviation business [will become] the pillar of Honda, so that one day in the future, people will say: Honda used to be a car and motorcycle company.”