Development of the HondaJet

Abstract

The HondaJet is an advanced, lightweight, business jet featuring an extra large cabin, high fuel efficiency, and high cruise speed compared to existing small business jets. To achieve the high performance goals, an over-the-wing engine-mount configuration, a natural-laminar -flow wing, and a natural-laminar-flow fuselage nose were developed through extensive analyses and wind-tunnel tests. The wing is metal, having an integral, machined skin to achieve the smooth upper surface required for natural laminar flow. The fuselage is constructed entirely of composites; the stiffened panels and the sandwich panels are co-cured integrally in an autoclave to reduce weight and cost. The prototype aircraft has been designed and fabricated. Major ground tests such as structural proof tests, control-system proof test, system function tests, and ground vibration tests have been completed. The first flight was conducted on December 3, 2003, and flight testing is currently underway. The aerodynamic, aeroelastic, structural, and system designs and the ground tests performed during the development are described.