HondaJet Elite II: A Pioneering Twin-Jet with FAA-Certified Emergency Autoland
Honda Aircraft Company has achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the HondaJet Elite II becomes the first production twin-turbine very light business jet certified by the FAA to equip Garmin’s Emergency Autoland system. The certification, announced on February 4, 2026, represents a major advancement in aviation safety technology.
The Emergency Autoland (EAL) system enables the aircraft to land autonomously if the pilot becomes incapacitated. It can be activated manually by pushing a button or automatically through monitoring systems that detect pilot unresponsiveness. Once engaged, the system transmits emergency codes to air traffic control, evaluates weather conditions, terrain, fuel status, and runway dimensions to select an optimal diversion airport, and autonomously lands the aircraft.
“Adding Emergency Autoland to the HondaJet Elite II demonstrates our commitment to delivering new value to our customers,” said Honda Aircraft Company President & CEO Hideto Yamasaki.
The company is now pursuing certifications from regulatory agencies in other international markets to offer the same capability to customers worldwide.
This achievement follows the HondaJet Elite II becoming the first twin-turbine very light business jet to equip Autothrottle in October 2024, a key technology that paved the way for EAL integration. Global deliveries of the HondaJet surpassed 250 units in 2024.
Source: Honda Aircraft Company Official Press Release