Horizon Aircraft Signs LOI for Chilean Cavorite X7 eVTOLs
Horizon Aircraft, an innovative developer of hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, has taken a significant stride in its international expansion strategy by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Discovery Air Chile. Announced on January 10, 2025, the agreement outlines the lease of five Cavorite X7 eVTOLs to be delivered in 2028. This partnership marks a milestone for both Horizon Aircraft and Discovery Air Chile, as it promises to transform regional air mobility in Chile through advanced, cost-effective hybrid technology.
The Cavorite X7 eVTOL is designed to offer a compelling alternative to traditional helicopters. According to Horizon Aircraft, the Cavorite X7 provides operational advantages by flying at nearly twice the speed of conventional rotary-wing aircraft while offering up to 75% lower operating costs on a per-mile basis. The aircraft’s hybrid-electric design distinguishes it from many eVTOL competitors by combining the benefits of electric propulsion with the reliability of a conventional combustion engine, ensuring longer range and enhanced safety for critical services.
Brandon Robinson, CEO and Co-founder of Horizon Aircraft, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “This agreement with Discovery Air Chile Ltda. marks a significant milestone for Horizon Aircraft as we further expand our international footprint into South America. In Chile, when it comes to emergency evacuations, transfers and quickly reaching hospitals, speed is essential. Our Cavorite X7 hybrid eVTOL offers a compelling economic and operational alternative to helicopters.” Robinson further elaborated that the aircraft’s ability to fly almost twice as fast, coupled with an estimated 30% lower per-hour operating cost, results in over 75% savings on a per-mile basis compared to traditional helicopters. These advantages not only promise improved efficiency but also enhanced safety and reduced environmental impact—an increasingly critical factor in today’s aviation industry.
Discovery Air Chile is equally excited about the prospects the new eVTOL offers. Álvaro González, General Manager of Discovery Air Chile, commented, “We are proud to be the first South American operator of Horizon Aircraft’s Cavorite X7 Hybrid eVTOL. Sustainable, cost-effective operations and innovative technology, such as what Horizon Aircraft offers, advances Chilean regional air services and is integral to maintaining competitive operations. The Cavorite X7 is expected to transform the speed, flexibility, and cost to transport people and critical goods. This will be transformative for Chilean air movements at a regional level.” González’s statement highlights the potential for dramatic reductions in transfer times for passengers, patients, and time-sensitive goods, which is vital in emergency medical services and regional connectivity.
The Cavorite X7, drawing its name from a fictional metal featured in an H.G. Wells novel, is engineered to carry six passengers along with a pilot. With its modern, hybrid design, the aircraft aims to offer a balance between speed, range, and cost-efficiency that traditional helicopters struggle to match. By integrating such advanced technology into its operations, Discovery Air Chile hopes to not only enhance its air taxi and emergency evacuation services but also pave the way for a new era of regional air mobility across South America.
This groundbreaking LOI is a testament to Horizon Aircraft’s vision for sustainable and efficient air travel solutions globally. As the eVTOL market continues to evolve, partnerships like this are set to reshape regional transportation networks, improve connectivity, and reduce operational costs. With delivery slated for 2028, the future looks promising for both Horizon Aircraft and its new partner, heralding a transformation in how people and critical goods traverse remote regions.
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