N617AF Aircraft Overview
Performance Profile
At 422 knots, N617AF delivers genuine jet speed on missions under two hours. The HondaJet's 1,223 NM range covers most regional city pairs in the continental United States. 2x GE Honda HF120 at 2,050 lbs keep fuel burn at turboprop levels.
Mission Profile
N617AF targets the missions where a turboprop is too slow and a light jet is more aircraft than needed. The HondaJet's 6-seat cabin at 12.1 ft by 5.0 ft handles the passenger loads that 80% of private flights actually carry.
Charter Authorization
N617AF holds Part 135 authorization. The HondaJet's low operating cost makes it accessible for first-time charter clients and frequent short-haul travelers. Reach out to discuss availability.
Insider Note
Pre-owned HondaJet values have stabilized after initial depreciation. N617AF's 2018 build year places it in the market at a specific price point. Buyers should verify avionics currency and engine program status as the two highest-impact variables.
Charter & Acquisition Briefing
N617AF is a 2018 helicopter registered to . Rotorcraft serve missions that fixed-wing aircraft cannot: point-to-point urban transport, offshore operations, EMS, and aerial work.
Fleet Position
Over 10,000 helicopters are on active U.S. registrations. FAA data shows N617AF based in —, . The U.S. helicopter fleet serves EMS, offshore oil and gas, law enforcement, utility, VIP transport, and flight training. Maintenance infrastructure is extensive, with turbine helicopter service available at most major airports.
Charter Availability
N617AF is Part 135 charter authorized. Helicopter charter rates range from $1,500 to $8,000 per flight hour depending on type and configuration. VIP helicopter charter serves urban transfers (Manhattan to JFK in 8 minutes), resort access, and event transportation where ground travel times exceed 2 hours.
Market Position
A 2018 production date places N617AF in the current generation with FADEC engines, glass cockpit avionics, and modern safety systems. Pre-owned values sit at $2M to $15M. Current-generation helicopters offer the latest in crash survivability, automation, and operational efficiency.
Acquiring a current-generation helicopter provides access to the latest autorotation aids, health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS), and terrain awareness. These systems reduce accident rates and insurance premiums while improving dispatch reliability.
Mission Profile
Optimized for missions where vertical takeoff and landing capability is essential. EMS programs save lives by reaching accident scenes and hospitals directly. Offshore operators service platforms hundreds of miles from shore. Law enforcement provides aerial surveillance that ground units cannot replicate.
When to Choose Something Else
Skip helicopters for routes over 200 nm. At 130 to 170 knots, helicopters take twice as long as light jets over 200+ mile routes. For distances exceeding 150 miles, a combination of helicopter transfer plus fixed-wing jet provides the fastest door-to-door time.
Ownership & Operations
Aircraft ownership in the United States falls under FAA registration requirements. Every U.S.-registered aircraft carries an N-number that links to public records including owner name, address, airworthiness date, and certificate type. The FAA Aircraft Registry maintains this data and updates it as aircraft change hands. Prospective buyers use these records to verify ownership history, lien status, and maintenance compliance before committing to an acquisition.
Pre-Purchase Considerations
Avionics modernization drives both capability and market value. Aircraft with legacy analog instruments trade at significant discounts to those with modern glass cockpits (Garmin G5000, Collins Pro Line Fusion, Honeywell Primus Epic). ADS-B Out compliance is now mandatory in U.S. controlled airspace. Buyers should factor avionics upgrade costs into their acquisition budget when evaluating older airframes.
Charter Market Context
Empty leg pricing offers 25 to 75% discounts on published charter rates. These opportunities arise when an aircraft needs to reposition from a drop-off point back to base or to the next pickup location. The tradeoff is schedule inflexibility: departure time, date, and route are fixed by the operator's existing itinerary. The Jet Finder maintains an empty leg alert system for frequent charter clients.
N617AF Aircraft Intelligence
Cross-referenced from FAA Registry, Part 135 operator database, and live ADS-B telemetry.
Inquire About N617AF
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition that fits your needs. If the aircraft is not available or does not work for you, we operate private aircraft as well and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.
For more information contact us and one of our private aviation advisers will be happy to assist you.
Contact UsDetailed Specifications
Aircraft Identity
| Registration | N617AF |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | HONDA |
| Model | HondaJet (HA-420) |
| Part 135 Operator | Cutter Flight Management Inc. |
| Category | Private Jet |
| Cabin Class | — |
| Year Built | 2018 |
| Home Base | New Mexico |
| Home Airport | KPHX |
Performance & Capabilities
| Engine Type | 2x GE Honda HF120 |
|---|---|
| Engine Thrust | 2,050 lbs |
| Max Cruise Speed | 422 knots |
| Maximum Range | 1223 nautical miles |
| Service Ceiling | 43000 feet |
| Takeoff Distance | 4,000 ft |
| Passenger Capacity | — |
| Baggage Volume | 66 cu ft |
| Avionics | Garmin G3000 |
| IFR Certified | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions About N617AF
16 questions answered about this aircraft and the HondaJet
N617AF is a 2018 HONDA HondaJet (HA-420) registered in the United States. It carries serial number on file with the FAA and is classified as a business jet in the private aviation market. The aircraft has maintained continuous airworthiness for 7 years.
N617AF is a HONDA HondaJet (HA-420). The HondaJet is a business jet platform with a range of 2,000 nautical miles. HONDA has a well-established support network for this airframe.
The HondaJet is powered by 2x GE Honda HF120, each producing 2,050 lbs. Engine maintenance programs from the manufacturer spread overhaul costs across flight hours, making operating expenses predictable. The powerplant supports a service ceiling of 43,000 feet.
The HondaJet has a maximum cruise speed of 422 knots. Long-range cruise is 385 kts. At these speeds, a three-hour flight covers approximately 1266 nautical miles, connecting most major city pairs within its range envelope.
The HONDA HondaJet (HA-420) has an approximate range of 1,223 nautical miles. This translates to nonstop coverage of routes like New York to Miami, Dallas to Denver, or Chicago to Atlanta. At a cruise speed of approximately 422 knots, total block times remain competitive for the category.
The HondaJet seats up to 6 passengers in a typical charter configuration. The cabin measures 12.1 ft long, 5.0 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. The cabin accommodates productive work or rest on flights of typical duration.
The HondaJet has a maximum service ceiling of 43,000 feet (FL430). At this altitude, the aircraft operates above commercial traffic and most weather systems. The pressurization system maintains a cabin altitude of approximately 5,500-6,500 feet at maximum cruise altitude, reducing passenger fatigue on long flights.
Yes. The HondaJet is fully certified for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations. It is equipped with Garmin G3000 avionics avionics, supporting precision approaches, RNAV/GPS navigation, FANS/CPDLC for oceanic operations, and ADS-B Out compliance. All Part 135 charter operations require two instrument-rated pilots.
The HondaJet cabin measures 12.1 ft long, 5.0 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. Most passengers can stand upright in the center aisle. Baggage capacity is 66 cu ft.
The HondaJet has 66 cu ft of baggage volume in an externally accessible, heated and pressurized compartment. This accommodates 6+ full-size suitcases or a combination of luggage, garment bags, and sporting equipment. The compartment does not intrude on cabin space.
The HondaJet is equipped with Garmin G3000 avionics. This integrated flight deck provides enhanced situational awareness, synthetic vision, TCAS II, and weather radar. The system supports single-crew operations where type-certified, though Part 135 charter flights require two pilots.
The HondaJet was produced from 2015-present. The type was succeeded by the HondaJet Elite S. This specific aircraft (N617AF) was manufactured in 2018.
The HondaJet competes in the Very Light Jet segment against aircraft with similar range and cabin specifications. Key differentiators include a cruise speed of 422 knots, range of 1,223 nm, and a 5.0 ft-foot-wide cabin. Selection between competing types depends on mission profile, operator availability, and total trip cost.
Charter rates for the HondaJet typically range from $1,600-$2,200 per flight hour, depending on operator, region, and seasonal demand. This includes crew, fuel at current Jet-A prices, and standard handling. Additional costs may include FBO fees, overnight crew expenses, international handling, and repositioning if the aircraft is not based at the departure airport.
Yes. N617AF holds an active Part 135 certificate under Cutter Flight Management Inc., meaning it is legally authorized for on-demand charter operations. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability and schedule a flight.
Contact us for acquisition information about N617AF. Our aviation advisors can provide market valuation and availability details.
From Your First Mission to Your Final Acquisition
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition. If this aircraft is not available, we operate private aircraft and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.