RALEIGH – HondaJet will build a new factory in Guilford County, creating 280 jobs, to build its new 2600 longer-range jet aircraft.
The North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Economic Investment Committee approved an agreement with Honda Aircraft for the site.
Average wage for the new jobs will be $88,761 – $30,000 higher than the Guilford County average.
Guilford County also is considering incentives for Honda Aircraft. The deal is contingent upon local participation from the City of Greensboro and Guilford County, Gov. Roy Cooper’s office said.
“We are thrilled that North Carolina will be home to the new Honda light jet that represents the next chapter of our skyward mobility,” said Hideto Yamasaki, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company. “The state of North Carolina provides a rich talent pool and tremendous support from our local community and having our facilities located right next to the Piedmont Triad International Airport is an ideal location to develop and produce our new light jet.”
The Japan-based company plans a $56 million factory to build a larger jet model.
“HondaJet’s creation of nearly 300 good-paying jobs is yet another example of why CNBC named North Carolina as the number one state in the country to do business for the second year in a row,” said Governor Roy Cooper in a statement. “This decision shows our state’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce, not only in the key industry of aerospace with a flagship brand like HondaJet, but in the entire advanced manufacturing arena.”
It’s the second big aviation deal for aircraft construction following Boom Supersonic’s decision in 2022 to build its plant at Piedmont Triad International Airport.
Off Boom goes … supersonic airliner factory construction is underway in Triad
The county has designated about $713,00 to attract the project to Piedmont Triad International Airport, sources told WGHP last week before today’s deal was announced.
The maker of HondaJets employs about 1,500 in Greensboro and Alamance County.
HondaJet recently announced plans to launch a new model with cross-continental range, capacity for 11 people, with a one-person flight crew.
Honda Aircraft says it plans to commercialize the the HondaJet 2600 Concept in 2028 following certification.
The company also offers the HondaJet Elite II, which received certification last year. It has a range of some 1,500 miles.
HondaJet unveiled that model in 2021.
Overall, HondaJet has built more than 220 aircraft, according to Business Insider.
“The new aircraft will surpass the performance, comfort, and efficiency of typical light jets by providing a medium-sized jet experience,” the company said. “It is designed to be the world’s first light jet capable of nonstop transcontinental flight across the United States, with a quiet and spacious cabin suited for long-range travel and the ability to accommodate up to 11 occupants. The aircraft is also designed for single-pilot operation.”
Fuel economy will increase as well – up to 20% higher than other light jets and more than 40% better than larger jets, the company said.
“The commercialization of our new light jet represents Honda’s next chapter of skyward mobility, which further expands the potential of people’s lives,” said Hideto Yamasaki, CEO of Honda Aircraft Company, in a statement. “By building on the expertise behind our technological innovations, we will accelerate the development of the program with sustainability a key element throughout.”
HondaJet also recently launched a “Certified Pre-Owned program after so far delivering 230 of its business-focused jets to customers worldwide.
Honda aircraft began entering service in 2015.
