HondaJet Delayed: Engines Part of the Holdup

A conforming prototype of Honda's unique over-the-wing HondaJet is now scheduled to fly in November, a few months later than the previously projected first flight "this summer." A company statement said that certain "major components" were delayed, resulting in the schedule slippage. A spokesman said, "We anticipate receiving the first conforming, flight-worthy engines from GE Honda Aero Engines in the third quarter of 2010, with the safety of flight certification from GE Honda to follow shortly after engine delivery. We will then begin consolidation of the engines with the airframe, conduct low- and high-speed taxi tests, and proceed to first flight, which is scheduled for November 2010." By extension, first deliveries of the HondaJet are now anticipated in "fall of 2012" rather than "late 2011." The spokesman said the factory construction project is on track for completion in February 2011, with large-scale production set to meet customer demand as soon as certification is received.