Fujino Michimasa (藤野 道格), the creator of the HondaJet, was selected in September 2026 as the first Japanese recipient of the JC Hunsaker Aircraft Engineering Award. The design earned high acclaim worldwide after overcoming approximately 30 years of development and internal criticism.
As the HondaJet design recognized worldwide, Fujino Michimasa (藤野 道格) demonstrated an arrangement with the engines mounted above the main wings. The configuration was recognized for reducing drag, improving fuel efficiency and limiting cabin noise. The NAE cited this achievement as the reason for the award, and the ceremony was held in Washington on 4 October. He became the first Japanese recipient.
However, Fujino's design was once harshly criticized internally, the research project was terminated, and it took approximately 30 years for the aircraft to reach the market. Behind the award was said to be 30 years of testing and continued dedication. Fujino disclosed his former boss's remarks in a public setting and experienced considerable hardship before winning support for the design.
Fujino Michimasa (藤野 道格) joined Honda after graduating from the Department of Aeronautics, Faculty of Engineering, the University of Tokyo, in 1984, and was assigned to the aircraft research team. He later built 2 experimental aircraft in rural Mississippi in the southern United States, but the project did not lead to commercialization and was terminated in 1996.
The award indicates that the HondaJet's innovation and long development history were recognized, with particular attention drawn to its status as the first award received by a Japanese recipient.