First Sales To Come In May At EBACE

Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., announced this week plans to expand sales of HondaJet to Europe, beginning in May at the annual EBACE (European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition) conference in Geneva, Switzerland. Honda says its decision to expand sales of its light jet to the rapidly growing European market is a direct response to strong demand for HondaJet since the jet first went on sale in 2006 in the United States.

"We are excited to initiate sales in Europe, where we have received a steady stream of inquiries from interested customers who will now have the opportunity to reserve delivery of a HondaJet," said Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company president and CEO. "We are committed to providing our customers in Europe with both a class-leading product and a sales and service support system that exceed their expectations for private jet ownership and travel."

Honda recently expanded HondaJet sales throughout North America, announcing the establishment of a sales and service strategy for Mexico and Canada. "The expansion of HondaJet sales to Europe is an important step in the continued evolution of our business strategy, which seeks to address the extensive world-wide demand for HondaJet," said Fujino.

Further details regarding the HondaJet European sales and service support strategy and delivery timing will be released by Honda on May 20, 2008, at EBACE.

Honda Aircraft Company began US sales of the HondaJet in October 2006, and to date has amassed orders for well over 100 units. Honda anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the achievement of type certification in 2010. The company is scheduled to begin deliveries of HondaJet to US customers in 2010.

European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification is being pursued concurrently with FAA certification.

FMI: www.hondajet.com