By Kavita Mistry 
Horizon Aircraft has just made aviation history. The Canadian company completed a stable wing-borne flight using its Horizon Cavorite X7, making it the first eVTOL aircraft to do so. With its recent test flight showing a smooth wing transition using a patented fan-in-wing system, this aircraft could reshape the future of short-range air travel.
The newest version of the Cavorite X7 combines the best parts of a helicopter and a plane. It can take off and land straight up and down, like a helicopter. Once in the air, it shifts into flight mode and flies forward like a regular airplane.
How Does It Work?
The Cavorite X7 uses a smart “fan-in-wing” system to take off and land. When it needs to lift off, panels on the wings slide open to reveal hidden electric fans that help it rise straight up. As it picks up speed in the air, those fans close, and the wings start working like a normal plane. A rear propeller, powered by a gas engine, pushes it forward and charges the batteries while flying.
Capabilities and Performance
- Fast Travel: Can cruise at speeds between 250–288 mph.
- Long Range: Travels over 500 miles on a full tank with reserve fuel as an added precaution.
- Heavy Lifting: Tows up to 1,500 lbs vertically on takeoff, or 1,800 lbs on a short runway.
- Roomy Cabin: Seating for 6 passengers and 1 pilot.
- Flexible Use: Can take off from helipads, hospital rooftops, or short 1,000-foot runways.
The Cavorite X7 has all-weather capability, as it can fly under both VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and IFR (Instrument Flight Rules). Therefore, it can safely fly in good weather or inclement weather. It is one of the first eVTOLs to pursue full all-weather certification, thereby making it reliable whether the weather is good or bad.
The Horizon’s Cavorite X7 shows that hybrid eVTOLs can be practical, safe, and ready for real use. With plans to expand production, it’s positioning itself as a leader in the future of hybrid eVTOL travel.