Horizon Aircraft and MHI RJ Aviation Group have entered a strategic agreement to advance the development and flight testing of Horizon Aircraft’s Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Under the terms of the collaboration, MHI RJ Aviation Group (MHIRJ) will provide specialized engineering services to design and develop flight test instrumentation for the aircraft. This technical support is vital for the collection of critical data during the Cavorite X7 flight test program, which is currently scheduled to commence in early 2027. Beyond instrumentation, MHIRJ will provide broad engineering support, leveraging its extensive experience in the regional aviation sector to support the program’s progression toward certification.
MHIRJ was established in 2020 following Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ acquisition of the CRJ Series program, a family of regional aircraft with a long history of global service. The organization maintains a workforce of aerospace engineers and specialists experienced in the design, certification, and production of new aircraft types. This deep industry background is intended to help Horizon Aircraft reduce technical risks as the Cavorite X7 moves from the design phase to physical testing.
Elio Ruggi, Senior Vice-President, Chief Engineer- Head of Aircraft Development, Quality & Flight Ops, MHIRJ, commented, “We’re excited to team up with Horizon Aircraft on their innovative Cavorite X7 project. With our expertise in engineering and regional aviation, we believe we can make a significant impact as they lead the way in hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft. This collaboration not only opens doors for business growth, but lets us use our engineering strengths to push this cutting-edge initiative forward. We’re committed to contributing to the value chain and supporting sustainable technology in regional aviation.“
The partnership allows Horizon Aircraft to tap into an engineering group with a proven track record in the global aerospace community. By integrating MHIRJ’s regional aviation expertise, the company aims to streamline the path to flight testing.
Horizon Aircraft Co-Founder and CEO Brandon Robinson stated, “MHIRJ represents an elite engineering group within the global aerospace community with a proven track record in regional aircraft development. This partnership strengthens the Cavorite X7 program and helps significantly reduce the technical risk associated with advancing our aircraft toward flight testing and eventual certification.”
