HondaJet Finally Cleared for Takeoff in U.S.

Honda Motor Co. says its seven-passenger HondaJet plane has been awarded certification by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.

The $4.5 million business plane, which has been in development for decades, is being produced by the company’s Honda Aircraft Company Inc. unit in Greensboro, N.C. Honda reports it is assembling 25 units and has orders for 100 more.

The 43-foot-long plane made its maiden flight in 1999 and completed its first FAA flight test in 2010. Honda initially aimed to begin deliveries in 2012.

The unusual jet has an all-composite fuselage and two wing-mounted turbofans on pylons near the body. Honda says the plane is the fastest, quietest, roomiest and most fuel efficient in its class.