Honda Aircraft sales off to a good start

Honda Aircraft Company announced that it received well over 100 individual customer orders with d posits for the $3.65 million HondaJet during the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Orlando, FL. The company began sales of its advanced light jet on October 17, 2006 and has experienced demand in excess of expectations.

"We are extremely pleased with the early customer response to HondaJet. In addition to the strong demand we have experienced from individuals, we are negotiating with a number of fleet customers as well," said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO of Honda Aircraft Co., Inc. "Due to this overwhelming response, we are now considering an increase in our production plan to meet the needs of our customers."

HondaJet will be produced by the Honda Aircraft Company at a dedicated manufacturing facility in the United States.

HondaJet introduces a series of new technologies that signify a revolutionary departure from conventional light jet designs. Its most unique and recognizable feature-the over-the-wing engine mount (OTWEM) configuration-liberates fuselage space for increased room in the cabin and cargo stowage, while significantly reducing aerodynamic drag at high speeds for improvements in performance and fuel efficiency.

HondaJet features a class-topping cruise speed of 420 knots with an IFR range of 1,180 nautical miles, and a 30% – 35% gain in fuel efficiency at cruise speed versus other jets of comparable performance.

A sales network incorporating five regional sales groups has been established for sales of HondaJet-HondaJet East, HondaJet Southeast, HondaJet Midwest, HondaJet Southwest and HondaJet Northwest-operating 14 offices around the country to provide HondaJet customers with a sales and ownership experience. The company will also establish a network of service facilities within 90 minutes of flight time from any location in the U.S.