Honda Aero breaks ground for $21M engine plant expansion in Burlington

Honda Aero on Tuesday broke ground for a major expansion of its jet engine manufacturing capabilities in Burlington.

The company is investing $21 million in a new plant.

The expansion also is expected to add between 20 and 30 jobs over the next several years.

Maintenance and service facilities also are part of the project.

The new plant should be online in early 2017.

“Honda Aero is very excited to expand upon the strong foundation we have established in North Carolina and increase our production capabilities,” said Honda Aero President Atsukuni Waragai. “This facility will give us increased flexibility and capacity to continue providing the very best products and services for our customers.”

Existing facilities are already the site of manufacture for the HF120 jets that power the HondaJet, the business jet built in Greensboro.

HondaJet began delivery in December.

The HF120 engine also can be included in other aircraft.