Honda Aircraft pushes Echelon light jet introduction to 2031

Honda Aircraft has delayed the introduction of its HA-480 Echelon light business jet by three years, to 2031, citing supplier issues. The Greensboro, North Carolina airframer announced the revised timeline on 15 September.

First flight is now targeted for 2028, with certification and first delivery to follow in 2031. At launch in 2021, Honda Aircraft planned to fly the jet this year and certify it in 2028.

The manufacturer said in a statement that the new schedule reflects tier-one supplier-related adjustments and continuing development work, and that the changes are meant to ensure the aircraft meets its quality and performance targets. It gave no further detail and declined to comment on the cause of the delay.

Several key suppliers have been named. In 2023 the company said Spirit AeroSystems would build the Echelon's composite fuselage in Kinston, North Carolina. That plan was called into question after Airbus acquired the site in December as part of Boeing's purchase of Spirit. Before the ownership change, in 2024, Honda Aircraft chief commercial officer and Echelon programme leader Amod Kelkar played down potential risks to the programme while noting some changes were possible.

Williams International is to supply the Echelon's twin JF44 turbofans. Aernnova will design components including the wings and manufacture the flaps, ailerons, spoilers and empennage, according to Honda Aircraft.

Alongside the revised timeline, the company reported programme progress on 15 September, saying it had completed assembly of the first wing structure for the HondaJet Echelon test unit.