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The HondaJet prototype has been flying for just shy of three years and has logged about 300 hours over nearly 200 flights. On the sales front, the HondaJet backlog stands at more than 100 aircraft, even though first deliveries of the $3.65 million twinjet won’t start until 2010. However, Honda Aircraft GM of Sales and Marketing Doug Danuser told AVweb that this count includes only individual orders and that there is significant interest (and probably some orders already placed) from fleet operators, a group that includes fractional and air-taxi operators. Danuser comes from Honda’s Acura luxury auto group, and it shows in Honda Aircraft’s approach to sales and service. He said that the newly formed aircraft company is adopting an “at the spot” sales and service dealer network comprising 14 dealers in a five U.S. regions, with no customer more than 90 minutes’ flying time from any such facility. “This will ensure a more personal relationship with the customer,” Fujino pointed out.
Behind The Scenes Look At Honda Aircraft
Key Takeaways:
- Honda Aircraft publicly unveiled its Greensboro, N.C. facility, showcasing the innovative HondaJet, which features unique over-the-wing-mounted GE-Honda turbofans.
- The HondaJet program, developed over 20 years, is nearing certification, with the prototype having flown for nearly three years and securing over 100 individual orders for the $3.65 million jet ahead of 2010 deliveries.
- The company plans a distinctive "at the spot" sales and service dealer network with 14 facilities across five U.S. regions, ensuring customers are within 90 minutes' flying time for personalized service.
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