Horizon Aircraft is advancing a dual-use certification strategy for its Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric VTOL, aligning the program with both civil and military regulatory requirements. The Canadian developer is working with 3C, a certification and compliance specialist, to map a path that addresses commercial aviation standards while also meeting defense qualification needs, according to recent disclosures.
The Cavorite X7 is a planned seven-seat aircraft (one pilot and six passengers) designed around a fan-in-wing configuration. It combines 12 electrically driven lift fans embedded in the wings and other surfaces with a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboprop that provides forward thrust and serves as an onboard generator. Horizon’s published performance targets include a maximum cruise speed of about 450 km/h, a range of 800 km with reserves, and a maximum ferry range of 1,450 km.
The aircraft is being positioned for missions such as medevac, regional transport, cargo, business aviation, and defense operations. Features under development include a cargo-capable floor, provisions for an emergency medical layout, folding wings sized for shipboard or strategic airlift storage, and in-flight refueling capability. Horizon has already conducted flight tests with a sub-scale demonstrator and is progressing toward a full-scale prototype as it pursues certification in the civil and military domains.