Business Aviation
HondaJet Elite II Achieves FAA Certification for Emergency Autoland
HondaJet Elite II completes FAA certification for Emergency Autoland, enabling safe autonomous landings in pilot incapacitation scenarios.
In the world of aviation, the question of “what if” drives a relentless pursuit of safety and innovation. One of the most critical scenarios is pilot incapacitation, a rare but potentially catastrophic event where the person in control of the aircraft is suddenly unable to fly. For decades, the industry has relied on co-pilots and training to mitigate this risk. However, a new technological frontier is emerging, offering a powerful safety net that promises to redefine emergency protocols. This is the world of emergency autoland systems, a groundbreaking technology designed to take control of an aircraft, navigate it to a suitable airport, and land it safely without any human intervention.
These sophisticated systems represent a significant leap in autonomous flight capabilities. Once activated, either by a passenger or automatically upon detecting a lack of pilot interaction, the aircraft’s flight deck transforms into a fully autonomous command center. It analyzes a host of variables in real-time, weather, fuel, terrain, and runway availability, to make a life-or-death decision in seconds. The system then communicates its intentions to air traffic control and executes a perfect approach and landing, effectively turning a potential disaster into a manageable incident. Garmin’s “Autoland” system has been at the forefront of this revolution, steadily earning certification across a range of general aviation aircraft.
Now, this transformative technology is reaching a new milestone. Manufacturers Honda Aircraft Company has announced a pivotal achievement in its integration of an emergency autoland system for the HondaJet HA-420 Elite II. Having successfully completed the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Certification flight testing, the company is on the verge of introducing this capability to the twin-turbine very light jet market for the first time. This development not only enhances the safety profile of a specific aircraft but also signals a broader industry shift, where automation is becoming an indispensable co-pilot in the sky.
On October 15, 2025, Honda Aircraft Company confirmed it had successfully concluded its FAA certification flight testing for the Emergency Autoland system on the HondaJet Elite II. This was accomplished under a Type Inspection Authorization (TIA), a critical step in the certification process. A TIA indicates that the aircraft and its integrated systems have met all necessary design and safety standards and are prepared for final evaluation by FAA test pilots. This achievement is not just an incremental update; it positions the HondaJet Elite II to become the first twin-turbine very light business jet in the world to be certified with this life-saving technology.
The path to this milestone has been a deliberate one. The successful integration of an autoland system is a complex engineering feat that builds upon other advanced avionics. A crucial precursor was the certification of the autothrottle system for the HondaJet Elite II in October 2024. The autothrottle, which automatically manages the aircraft’s engine power, is a foundational element that enables the broader Autoland system to control speed and descent during an autonomous approach and landing. With the TIA now complete, full certification and deployment are anticipated in the coming months, marking the culmination of a dedicated engineering effort.
The significance of this achievement is rooted in its ability to provide an unprecedented layer of security for operators and passengers. In the event of an emergency, the system is designed to take decisive action. It can transmit a distress signal to air traffic control, alerting authorities to the situation, before the automated controls navigate the aircraft to a safe landing at a suitable airport. This capability offers a profound sense of peace of mind, reinforcing the safety-conscious design philosophy that has become a hallmark of the HondaJet program.
“Emergency Autoland was one of the first programs we announced when I assumed leadership of Honda Aircraft Company and I’m incredibly proud of our engineers for their commitment to realize this capability for our customers. We sincerely appreciate the patience of our customers and are very excited to be so close to certification for our HondaJet Elite II aircraft.” , Hideto Yamasaki, Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO
The technology at the heart of this innovation is Garmin® Autoland, a component of its advanced G3000 flight deck. The system is designed to be both comprehensive and intuitive in an emergency. Activation is straightforward; it can be engaged by a passenger pressing a clearly marked, dedicated button. Alternatively, the system can activate automatically if it detects a prolonged period of pilot inactivity, ensuring it can intervene even if everyone on board is unable to act.
Once engaged, the system’s powerful software begins a rapid, multi-factor analysis to select the best possible landing site. It considers weather conditions, wind direction, terrain, available fuel, and runway length, prioritizing airports with GPS approaches to ensure a precise and safe landing. Simultaneously, it takes over communication, squawking the universal 7700 emergency code to alert air traffic control and broadcasting its intentions and flight path on the appropriate frequencies. For passengers, the complex avionics displays are simplified, showing a clear map of the flight path and the estimated time of arrival, reducing anxiety during a stressful event. The final phase of the process is a fully autonomous landing sequence. The system manages every aspect of the approach, controlling the aircraft’s speed and descent while extending the flaps and landing gear at the appropriate moments. It executes the final flare for a smooth touchdown, applies the brakes to bring the aircraft to a complete stop on the runway, and then shuts down the engines. This final step is crucial, as it allows emergency services to approach the aircraft safely and provide assistance.
The certification of Garmin Autoland on the HondaJet Elite II is a landmark moment, but it’s also part of a much larger trend reshaping the aviation industry. Automation is increasingly being leveraged to enhance Safety and reduce pilot workload, and autoland technology is one of the most tangible examples of this shift. While the technology has been available for several years, its inclusion on a twin-engine jet marks a significant expansion of its application and accessibility.
This technology is steadily becoming a new standard for safety in modern general and business aviation. Several other aircraft have already achieved certification with Garmin Autoland, demonstrating its reliability and growing acceptance. These include single-engine aircraft like the Piper M600/SLS, Daher TBM 940/960, and the Cirrus Vision Jet (SF50), as well as turboprops like the Beechcraft King Air and Pilatus PC-12. The HondaJet’s certification extends this safety umbrella into the twin-engine very light jet category, a segment known for its performance and efficiency.
Honda Aircraft Company’s commitment to this technology extends beyond its current models. The company has already announced plans to include the Garmin Autoland system on its forthcoming HondaJet Echelon, a larger, 11-occupant aircraft. This forward-looking strategy indicates that emergency autoland is not just a feature but a core component of the company’s future vision for aviation, where advanced technology and uncompromising safety go hand in hand.
The successful flight testing of the Emergency Autoland system on the HondaJet Elite II is more than just a technical achievement; it represents a fundamental step forward in aviation safety. By directly addressing the critical risk of pilot incapacitation, this technology provides a robust and reliable solution that protects everyone on board. It transforms a high-stakes emergency into a controlled, automated event, showcasing the profound potential of autonomous systems to serve as a digital safety net.
As this technology becomes more widespread, it will likely set a new baseline expectation for safety in business and general aviation. For passengers, it offers an unparalleled level of reassurance. For operators, it enhances the value and safety profile of their aircraft. This advancement on the HondaJet is a clear indicator of the future trajectory of aviation, one where human skill and automated precision collaborate to make flying safer than ever before.
Question: What is Emergency Autoland? Question: Which HondaJet model is getting this system? Question: How is the system activated? Question: Is the HondaJet the first aircraft with this technology? Sources: Honda Aircraft Company
A New Era of Aviation Safety: The Rise of Autonomous Landing
HondaJet Elite II: Setting a New Safety Benchmark
The Certification Journey
How Garmin Autoland Takes Control
The Bigger Picture: Autoland’s Growing Footprint in Aviation
Conclusion: A Safer Future in the Skies
FAQ
Answer: It is an advanced safety system that can autonomously take control of an aircraft and land it at a suitable airport in the event the pilot becomes incapacitated and is unable to fly.
Answer: The HondaJet HA-420 Elite II is the model that has completed FAA certification flight testing for the system.
Answer: The system can be activated in two ways: manually by a passenger pressing a dedicated button, or automatically if the aircraft’s systems detect no pilot interaction for a prolonged period.
Answer: While other aircraft are certified with Garmin Autoland, the HondaJet Elite II is expected to be the first twin-turbine very light business jet to receive this certification.
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
NTSB Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
NTSB details preliminary findings on the fatal Statesville Cessna Citation 550 crash with seven fatalities, including Greg Biffle.
This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.
According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).
The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.
During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.
“Emergency landing.”
, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials
The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.
NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.
At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.
To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:
All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.
The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.
Who were the victims of the crash? When will the cause of the crash be determined? Was the airport controlled? Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash
Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication
Investigation Status and Site Analysis
Recorder Recovery
Weather Factors
Visual Assets and Public Docket
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB
Business Aviation
Honda Aircraft Introduces APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJets
Honda Aircraft offers the APMG S retrofit for Classic and APMG HondaJets, enhancing payload, avionics, and safety with FAA certified upgrades.
This article is based on an official press release from Honda Aircraft Company.
Honda Aircraft Company has officially introduced the “APMG S” upgrade package, a new retrofit program designed to modernize the manufacturers‘ earlier aircraft models. Announced as the fleet approaches its tenth anniversary, this initiative allows owners of the original HondaJet (Classic) and the HondaJet APMG to install advanced avionics and performance features that were previously exclusive to the newer HondaJet Elite S model.
According to the company’s announcement, the upgrade is available immediately for installation at the Honda Aircraft Company Service Center in Greensboro, North Carolina, as well as through its authorized service center network. The package has already received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for U.S.-registered aircraft, with certification from other international regulatory bodies planned to follow.
The APMG S package focuses on bridging the gap between the earliest iterations of the HondaJet and the current production standards. The upgrade targets three primary areas: payload capacity, avionics processing, and pilot handling.
Increased Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Avionics and Safety Systems Additionally, the upgrade introduces a new graphical interface for Weight and Balance calculations on the flight deck, streamlining pre-flight preparations for pilots.
The introduction of the APMG S appears to be a move to protect the longevity and residual value of the HondaJet fleet. By offering a pathway for early adopters to upgrade their airframes to “Elite S” standards, the manufacturer is ensuring that older models remain competitive in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) market. In the official press release, Amod Kelkar, Chief Commercial Officer of Honda Aircraft Company, emphasized the company’s dedication to its existing customer base:
“As we approach the tenth anniversary of our first HondaJet delivery, we are excited to provide our customers the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations. The APMG S package brings the spirit of continuous improvement to our in-service fleet, ensuring that the HondaJet remains at the forefront of the light jet category.”
While the official release focuses on technical specifications, the strategic timing of this announcement is notable. The first HondaJet “Classic” models were delivered between 2015 and 2018. As these airframes approach the decade mark, they face potential obsolescence when compared to newer entrants like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 or the Embraer Phenom 100EV.
By offering a retrofit option rather than forcing customers to purchase a new aircraft to gain these capabilities, Honda is likely aiming to prevent customer defection to competitors. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend toward sustainability and lifecycle extension, where “retrofitting” is viewed as a more environmentally and financially responsible alternative to scrapping or replacing airframes. While specific pricing was not disclosed in the release, owners are directed to contact service centers for quotes, historical data suggests such upgrades offer a cost-effective alternative to trading up to a new $6 million-plus aircraft.
Honda Aircraft Company has confirmed that the APMG S package is available for installation now. The upgrade is applicable to:
Owners interested in the upgrade can schedule installation at the factory service center in Greensboro, NC, or at authorized facilities worldwide. While FAA certification is complete, European operators and those in other jurisdictions will need to wait for subsequent regulatory approvals, which the company states are currently in planning.
Honda Aircraft Company Unveils APMG S Upgrade for Legacy HondaJet Fleet
Technical Enhancements and Performance Gains
One of the most significant operational changes included in the package is a 300-pound increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW). In practical terms, this allows operators to carry approximately one additional passenger or significantly more fuel and baggage without compromising range. The company states that this upgrade directly addresses the evolving mission requirements of current owners.
The retrofit includes both hardware and software updates to the Garmin G3000 avionics suite. These updates are designed to deliver faster processing speeds and enable advanced flight deck features. A key safety addition is the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS). According to Honda Aircraft Company, ASAS is engineered to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety during the landing rollout, particularly in challenging crosswind conditions.
Strategic Commitment to the Fleet
AirPro News Analysis
Availability and Implementation
Sources
Photo Credit: HondaJet
Business Aviation
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Partner to Expand Private Jet Access Across Continents
PlaneSense partners with CaptainJet, enabling reciprocal private flight access with Pilatus aircraft across the US, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.
This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.
PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.
The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.
For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.
This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.
George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release: “Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”
Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:
“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”
The Asset-Light Expansion Model The Short-Runway Niche 2025 Industry Trends What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe? Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US? Is this a merger?
PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration
Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers
Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”
Executive Commentary
Strategic Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.
Sources
Photo Credit: PlaneSense
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