Honda has built a reputation by keeping its feet on the ground. Even when it ventures into the water to add outboard motors to its collection of cars, trucks, lawn mowers, and motorcycles, Honda’s known for efficient, economical, and reliable machines.

But the company is reaching into the stratosphere (or something near it) with the the $4.9 million HondaJet. The business jet (basically a less lavish private plane) entered service in earnest this year after two decades of fastidious, often-delayed development. Honda’s pristine new assembly line in Greensboro, North Carolina is steadily approaching full capacity, when it will build up to eight jets a month.

A business jet might seem outside the scope of Honda’s core mission, but the challenge of cracking a competitive market with an innovative new product is nothing new for the company. So far, the HondaJet seems to pack enough classic Honda practical engineering prowess to impress the general aviation community.

Efficient aerodynamics, high speed (nearly 500 mph), a novel engine configuration, and relative low cost tend to do that. The HondaJet is the second cheapest business jet on the market, after the Cirrus Vision Jet, and for many it’s a right-sized option for transporting six or seven people without relying on commercial airlines. Furthermore, it has proven easy and fun to fly thanks to its compact size and its agility, rare qualities in non-fighter jets.

For a better look at how Honda builds the jet, we explored the Greensboro factory, and even took a joyride in a finished product. Click through the gallery above to see how it’s done, and how it feels.

On the Factory Floor