In its first-ever virtual product launch, Honda Aircraft Company unveiled the HondaJet Elite S, an evolution including various performance and avionics upgrades as well as new paint schemes.
In the presentation, Michimasa Fujino, president and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, explained the various updates.
With an increased maximum take-off weight of 200 lb (90.7kg), customers can now fly up to 120 nautical miles further at a higher payload or take an additional passenger during their typical mission. The additional range benefit begins to phase in above 650 lb (294.8kg) of payload; additional passenger/payload benefit ranges from 170-200 lb (77.1-90.7kg) depending on the mission range.
The newly available avionics options of FAA DataComm and ACARS replace traditional voice commands with text-based messaging designed to improve the clarity and efficiency of communications.
A newly introduced Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS) is intended to further reduce pilot workload and maximise safety.
The HondaJet Elite S also introduces new styling with exclusive paint schemes available in Gunmetal, Luxe Gold and Deep Sea Blue. These new colour options are topped off with a signature Elite S logo, with a bold red S and further customisation available depending on exterior colour selections.
In its introduction, Honda Aircraft Company unveiled an Elite S with a special paint scheme representing the company’s continued commitment to research and development of leading-edge technology to realise new possibilities and propose new value for business aviation.
“Since its introduction in 2018, the HondaJet Elite has achieved the best performance in its class while also being the most efficient, and with the new Elite S, we take another step forward in expanding the aircraft’s capability,” said Fujino. “As a result of the innovation, design and engineering on the new Elite S, we are once again setting a new standard in business aviation.”
The HondaJet Elite S has inherited signature aeronautical features developed in-house including the Over-The-Wing Engine Mount configuration, Natural Laminar Flow fuselage nose and wing, composite fuselage and a highly customised avionics suite. The aircraft is certified for single-pilot operations. The cabin features a full-service galley, a private lavatory with optional belted seat, and a Bongiovi sound system.
