Horizon Aircraft targets first flight of Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric eVTOL in early 2027

Horizon Aircraft expects the first flight of its Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric eVTOL aircraft to take place in early 2027, following assembly of the first full-scale prototype planned for 2026. The timeline was outlined as part of the company’s business update and second-quarter results for fiscal year 2026.

The Canadian company said it has made “significant development progress” on the full-scale X7, with initial testing scheduled to begin after assembly is completed. The aircraft is designed as a hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing platform that conducts most of its mission in conventional wing-borne flight, rather than relying solely on vertical lift.

Alongside the program update, Horizon Aircraft reported strengthened liquidity, ending the quarter with more than $24 million in cash on hand. The company said the funding position is sufficient to support its planned activities through 2026, including prototype assembly, early testing and continued engineering work.

Horizon also highlighted a shift in spending toward research and development as the program moves closer to full-scale aircraft production, alongside lower relative administrative costs. During the period, the company was awarded a non-dilutive grant under Canada’s Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT) program, supporting an all-weather eVTOL project with an estimated value of $10.5 million.

According to the company, its engineering team has doubled in size year over year, with plans to double headcount again by the end of 2026 as development activity accelerates. Horizon said near-term priorities include expanding its supply chain and strengthening strategic partnerships in support of the X7 program.

Horizon Aircraft describes the Cavorite X7 as a hybrid-electric aircraft intended for regional operators, emergency services and potential military users. The company has not disclosed detailed certification timelines but said it plans to scale production after successful testing and regulatory approval of the full-scale aircraft.

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