Elite Traveler Spring 2019

elite traveler SPRING 2019 101

BY THE NUMBERS Passengers 5-6 Range 1,223 nm Max speed 485 mph Landing distance 3,050 ft Operating cost $1,135 per hour

HondaJet BEST JET FOR THE FAMILY PILOT

Finally, a light jet tailored for the family pilot, with room for the pilot, the pilot’s spouse and up to four little ones in the cabin. The HondaJet’s unusual over-the-wing engine mounting opens up the interior of this jet in a way unmatched by any other small jet. The extra space comes courtesy of what the HondaJet lacks: the engine spar that typically goes between two fuselage-mounted engines. That is space the cabin occupants get to use, giving this jet a spaciousness absent from its closest competitors. Capable of cruising at about 485 mph, the HondaJet can cover more than 1,000 miles in about two hours and 45 minutes at high-speed cruise and is the fastest business jet in its class. Drop down to economy cruise, and the range edges upward to more than 1,300 miles in about three and a half hours. Of course, if Grandma lives close enough, Dad, Mom and the little ones can cover the holiday trip in under two hours — and still have fuel to get back home. $4.5m, hondajet.com

Photo Paul Bowen Photography