Matt Thurber, editor-in-chief at AIN Media Group, has been flying since 1975 and writing about aviation since 1978 and now has the best job in the world, running editorial operations for Aviation International News, Business Jet Traveler, and FutureFlight.aero. In addition to working as an A&amp;P mechanic on everything from Piper Cubs to turboprops, Matt taught flying at his father’s flight school in Plymouth, Mass., in the early 1980s, flew for an aircraft owner/pilot, and for two summer seasons hunted swordfish near the George’s Banks off the East Coast from a Piper Super Cub. An ATP certificated fixed-wing pilot and CFII and commercial helicopter pilot, Matt is type-rated in the Citation 500 and Gulfstream V/550. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Matt and his team cover the entire aviation scene including business aircraft, helicopters, avionics, safety, manufacturing, charter, fractionals, technology, air transport, advanced air mobility, defense, and other subjects of interest to AIN, BJT, and FutureFlight readers.

Editor-in-Chief

Matt Thurber

The HondaJet Elite II is now type validated in Brazil, and Honda Aircraft has delivered the first of these latest very light jets to a customer in the country. An Elite II is on display this week at HondaJet-authorized sales representative Lider Aviação at LABACE 2026 at São Paulo Campo de Marte Airport (SBMT).
Featuring Garmin’s Emergency Autoland, the Elite II is equipped with autothrottles that ease pilot workload in busy airspace and Garmin G3000 avionics. Ground spoilers improve takeoff and landing performance, and Honda Aircraft increased the jet’s four-passenger NBAA IFR range to 1,547 nm. The Elite II was unveiled in October 2022.&nbsp;
The HondaJet’s over-the-wing-engine-mount design allows for a larger cabin while maximizing high-speed cruise efficiency. With an enclosed lavatory and seats for up to eight occupants, the Elite II can cruise at up to 422 knots.
“This delivery underscores Honda Aircraft Company’s commitment to building a global fleet presence while delivering meaningful value to customers worldwide,” said Amod Kelkar, senior v-p and chief commercial officer. “The enhanced features of the Elite II will enable customers in Brazil and across South America to travel farther, more efficiently, and with an elevated level of comfort.”

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

HondaJet Elite II Notches ANAC Nod, First Brazil Delivery

Very light jet has a maximum cruise speed of 422 knots

Featuring Garmin’s Emergency Autoland, the Elite II is equipped with autothrottles that ease pilot workload in busy airspace and a Garmin G3000 avionics suite. 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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Midnight prototype flew from Salinas to Monterey and back

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Brazil alone has more than 760 King Airs in operation

King Airs, Light Jets Anchor Textron Aviation in LatAm

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News and information about crew, passenger, aircraft and airport security issues.

Manoeuvrable multi-mission concept could carry up to four tons of water 

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News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

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New developments and products in avionics, specifically about aircraft electronics in the cockpit.

News and developments about everything that goes into the cabin of an aircraft, from floor coverings to headliners, with a special emphasis on in-flight entertainment, communications and other electronics for passengers. If it is in the cabin of an aircraft, it’s covered here.

Entrepreneur will use the six-seat single turboprop to fly between ranches

Daher Delivers First TBM 980 for a Brazilian Customer

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

LABACE 2026

In this article

HondaJet HA-420 Series

Honda Aircraft

More In Aircraft

Archer eVTOL Completes California Round Trip

Midnight prototype flew from Salinas to Monterey and back

King Airs, Light Jets Anchor Textron Aviation in LatAm

Brazil alone has more than 760 King Airs in operation

Noemi Details Firefighting Role For Amphibious Aircraft

Manoeuvrable multi-mission concept could carry up to four tons of water

FAA Finally Issues Type Certificate For Boeing 737 Max

Approval of the Boeing narrowbody has come around seven years later than expected

Daher Delivers First TBM 980 for a Brazilian Customer

Entrepreneur will use the six-seat single turboprop to fly between ranches

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