The HondaJet received type certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on December 8.

The FAA presented the type certificate to Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO Michimasa Fujino in front of more than 2,000 people, including FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, government representatives, community leaders, HondaJet dealers, suppliers and Honda Aircraft associates at Honda Aircraft headquarters in Greensboro, NC.

“Achieving FAA type certification for the HondaJet is a monumental milestone for Honda,” said Fujino. “We established Honda Aircraft as a new aerospace company and introduced our first product — an advanced light jet with technologies developed from serious research activities. We designed, tested, and have now certified this clean-sheet design aircraft – an unprecedented challenge for Honda.”

Honda Aircraft Company validated the HondaJet’s performance, safety, function and reliability through ground and flight tests with the FAA. Total flight hours exceeded 3,000, with testing conducted at more than 70 locations across the U.S.

“This day was achieved through the collaborative efforts of the FAA and Honda Aircraft Company,” said Melvin Taylor, manager of the FAA’s Atlanta aircraft certification office. “Collaboration is not easy, it often is a difficult subject. But when it is done successfully like this program, the rewards are gratifying to us all.”

With HondaJet FAA type certification achieved, Honda Aircraft is now ramping up production in Greensboro with 25 aircraft on the final assembly line.

“This is an exciting day for North Carolina and our state’s aerospace industry,” said North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory. “As far back as the Wright Brothers’ first flight at Kitty Hawk, our role in aviation has always been significant. Now, when we look up in the sky, we will see jets made right here in North Carolina. Congratulations to Honda Aircraft Company on this enormous achievement.”