Honda Aircraft has pushed back the HondaJet Echelon’s first flight to 2028, with type certification and first deliveries now scheduled for 2031, extending the business jet programme’s timeline by almost three years. The update comes as the Greensboro, North Carolina-based manufacturer reported progress on the aircraft, including completion of the first wing structure and continued assembly work across the programme.
The revised schedule reflects delays linked to tier-one suppliers rather than a cancellation or redesign. Honda Aircraft’s programme leader Amod Kelkar linked the shift to industrialisation challenges, while also pointing to continued build-up of parts and structures for the first aircraft.
The company has completed the first wing structure, with five wing structures at different stages of final assembly and more than 70% of parts already available for the programme. Assembly of the first aircraft is expected to begin early next year, keeping development active even as the Echelon’s entry into service moves further into the decade.