Horizon Aircraft completes wind tunnel transition flight testing of its ’Cavorite X5’ 50% prototype

The Canadian startup conducted the tests in the world class ACE Climatic Wind Tunnel, which is at Ontario Tech University. Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, said ’aircraft performance exceeded our expectations’, where they explored forward speeds of up to 100 km/h. They also measured aerodynamic forces, control authority, and mechanical system function with the wings open at varying fan speeds. Robinson added the results will be used to refine its CFD modeling and further de-risk the outdoor transition flight test program that is beginning soon. Horizon Aircraft anticipates final assembly for flight testing in 2025. Horizon’s innovative and patented hybrid eVTOL concept allows the aircraft to fly 98% of its mission in a very low-drag configuration like a traditional aircraft and is one of the only eVTOL aircraft currently able to do so. Flying most of the mission as a normal aircraft is safer, more efficient, and will be easier to certify than radical new eVTOL designs. The unique aircraft can also operate in Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) or Conventional Takeoff and Landing (CTOL) modes. The full-scale aircraft will be powered by a hybrid electric architecture that can recharge the battery array in-flight while providing additional system redundancy and flexibility. Video credit: Horizon Aircraft.