Horizon Aircraft has completed its first hover test with its prototype Cavorite X5 aircraft. This test proved that the aircraft can not only hover but that it can hover with reduced lift as a testament to its safety. The test reportedly exceeded company expectations putting the product ahead of schedule. The company anticipates that this new aircraft will become a key player in the future eVTOL market.
eVTOL test flight
On January 4th, the Canadian aviation company announced the successful completion of the test flight. The test yielded great results for the company as it met or exceeded current expectations in every category. During the trial, the aircraft proved that it could hover with only 65% power. The operators also turned off 20% of the fans. The aircraft performed admirably during both tests, proving its redundancy and ability to remain safe despite technical malfunctions.
The manufacturer has shared its confidence in the aircraft. Throughout various tests, it has proven capable of all it has been designed to do. The CEO of Horizon Aircraft, Brandon Robinson, shared the test's success. Robinson stated,
"this aircraft has exceeded expectations during initial hover testing. It is extremely stable, is capable of full hover at only 65% power, and has hovered with 20% of its fans purposely disabled in order to test system redundancy. This is a large-scale aircraft, with a 22-foot wingspan, over 15 feet in length, and capable of speeds over 175 mph. It continues to yield valuable data that is constantly improving our full-scale design."
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Next-generation aircraft
The Cavorite X5 is one of several eVTOL aircraft being designed and tested worldwide. Its low drag configuration makes this aircraft unique from other eVTOL aircraft. The aircraft is designed to fly at higher speeds exceeding 175 mph. While other eVTOL aircraft are designed to operate with reduced drag and at higher speeds, the Cavorite X5 exceeds in this area. Horizon Aircraft has stated that the aircraft is designed to primarily operate like an airplane.
It claims that the airplane-like design is safer and more streamline. This allows it to shed drag and be more appealing as it appears less radical than other eVTOL designs. The manufacturer claims that it will likely receive approval easier than similar aircraft designs due to its parallel nature to existing airplanes. Another unique feature that Horizon expects will boost the aircraft's success is that it will be powered by a hybrid-electric system that can recharge itself during flights. This will significantly extend the battery's runtime, expanding the aircraft's range. This self-charging system will also add a layer of redundancy to promote flight safety.
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While this test flight was successful, the company still has a long way to go before the aircraft can be pushed into full-scale production and service. The aircraft will undergo further testing early this year at the ACE Climatic Wind Tunnel near Toronto, Canada. Should all tests go well, the aircraft's final development and testing will occur before it can be certified. Horizon Aircraft has assured the public that while the Cavorite X5 may not be the first eVTOL aircraft to hit the market, it will undoubtedly be one of the best.
What do you think of this successful hover test? Let us know in the comment section.