GE Honda Aero Engines has begun full engine testing of the HF120 small turbofan, after an additional round of core tests to improve component efficiencies. The demonstration engine reached its maximum 2,095lb thrust (9.3kN) in initial runs at Honda's aircraft engine research and development centre in Japan.
GE Honda plans to test several builds of the demonstrator engine over the next five months to verify performance, operability, thermal characteristics and component efficiencies. The joint company is also releasing hardware for seven HF120 certification engines to be assembled at tested at GE's Lynne, Massachusetts plant.
Certification testing will begin next year, leading to engine approval in 2009. The HF120 is scheduled to enter service in 2010 on the HondaJet and Spectrum Freedom. GE will produce the initial engines while Honda Aero completes a production facility in Burlington, North Carolina, which is due to open in 2010.
Honda Aircraft has selected the UK's Hampson Industries to supply the empennage for HondaJet. The company has already selected Avcrop to supply the metal wing and GKN to produce the composite fuselage. Honda will assembled the aircraft in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Source: Flight International
