HondaJet becomes first aircraft with autonomous landing technology

The HondaJet Elite II is the first production model twin-turbine very light business jet certified with Emergency Autoland by the FAA.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Honda Aircraft Company announced that the HondaJet Elite II has become the first production model twin-turbine very light business jet certified to equip Emergency Autoland (EAL), following certification of the system by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The installation of this technology helps pilots in emergency situations by allowing the aircraft to land automatically without human intervention.

Why it matters

The certification of the HondaJet Elite II with Emergency Autoland represents a significant advancement in aviation safety technology. This autonomous landing capability can help pilots safely land the aircraft in emergency situations when the pilot becomes incapacitated, improving the overall safety of very light business jet operations.

The details

The HondaJet Elite II is equipped with Emergency Autoland, a system that can automatically land the aircraft without human intervention in the event of an emergency. This technology was developed by Garmin and certified by the FAA for the HondaJet. It uses the aircraft's existing avionics and flight control systems to navigate to the nearest suitable airport, communicate with air traffic control, and land the plane safely.

  • The HondaJet Elite II received FAA certification for the Emergency Autoland system on February 9, 2026.

The players

Honda Aircraft Company

An American aircraft manufacturer and a subsidiary of Honda Motor Company that produces the HondaJet, a very light business jet.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The national aviation authority of the United States, responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.

Garmin

An American multinational technology company that specializes in GPS navigation and wearable devices, and developed the Emergency Autoland system for the HondaJet.

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What’s next

The HondaJet Elite II with Emergency Autoland is now available for purchase by private and business jet operators, providing them with an added layer of safety and emergency landing capabilities.

The takeaway

The FAA's certification of the HondaJet Elite II as the first production model twin-turbine very light business jet with autonomous landing technology represents a significant milestone in aviation safety, as it can help pilots safely land the aircraft in emergency situations when the pilot becomes incapacitated.