HondaJet Elite II: Pioneering Twin-Engine Jet with Emergency Autoland
Honda Aircraft Company has reached a significant milestone in aviation safety. The HondaJet Elite II is now the first production twin-turbine very light business jet to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with Emergency Autoland technology.
This groundbreaking system, unveiled on February 4, 2026, equips the aircraft with the capability to land autonomously in emergency situations. This is particularly useful when the pilot becomes incapacitated. The Emergency Autoland (EAL) system can be triggered either manually by pressing a dedicated button or automatically through onboard monitoring systems that detect pilot unresponsiveness.
Once the system is activated, it transmits an emergency code and alerts air traffic control via radio calls. It then takes complete control of the aircraft. The system autonomously evaluates weather conditions, terrain, fuel levels, and runway dimensions to select the optimal diversion airport. It then configures the aircraft for landing, navigates the approach path, lands safely, and brings the jet to a full stop on the runway.
“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. “We are actively pursuing international certifications to offer this life-saving technology to customers worldwide.”
With over 250 HondaJets delivered globally, this certification marks another advancement in autonomous aviation safety systems.
Source: Honda Aircraft Company