Strategic Partnership Formed to Advance Hybrid-Electric VTOL Development

Horizon Aircraft and MHIRJ join forces to accelerate flight testing and certification for the Cavorite X7 eVTOL

Story and Image Credit: Olivia Hannam / 13 Apr 2026
http://www.aaminternational.com

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.”

… notes from SP

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EVHNews

Electric-Hybrid E Automotive, E Aviation, E Marine Technology & Future Innovative Electric-Hybrid VTOL Aerospace Tech News Around The World!

EVHNews.com is a dedicated global digital Technology platform for EVVTOL a Global EV / Hybrid Automotive, E-Aviation, E-VTOL, E-Marine Future Technology Industry Show & Expo Event Organization where the world biggest EV & E-VTOL brands invest in the future of transportation.

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This digital platform will include reviews and resources from global industry leaders, many with a focus on clean blue technology and alternative fuels where applicable. EVH news platform is for all to have access to the tools and information available for the future for breakthrough e-technology of the e-automotive, e-aviation, e-marine, e-motorcycle e-semi & e-truck e-motorsport industries.

About EVVTOL

• EVVTOL a new corporation branding itself as the most Influential global future technology show / expo event organization by strategically positioning itself to successfully facilitate EV and VTOL transportation industry clients with their needs!

• EVVTOL’s goal is to showcase the EV & VTOL industry and introduce the major EV & VTOL vehicles and component manufactures in the e-tech world by unveiling and displaying cutting-edge EV & E-VTOL technology.

• EVVTOL mission is to introduce multiple technology shows & expos including influential high-level EV business summits based on the dual themes of business engagement with key manufacturers working in the EV & E mobility Industry, energy vehicle information technology and charging infrastructure Industry. These events are excellent opportunities to learn about and discuss the latest future transportation technology advancements in EV& VTOL industry, and the battery energy challenges that still remain.

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EVHNews

Electric-Hybrid E Automotive, E Aviation, E Marine Technology & Future Innovative Electric-Hybrid VTOL Aerospace Tech News Around The World! EVHNews.com is a dedicated global digital Technology platform for EVVTOL a Global EV / Hybrid Automotive, E-Aviation, E-VTOL, E-Marine Future Technology Industry Show & Expo Event Organization where the world biggest EV & E-VTOL brands invest in the future of transportation. EV H News is committed to the Electric Vehicles & EV-Hybrid Automotive, E-Aviation E-VTOL-UAV E-Marine, industry including e-mobility e-semi & e-truck. This digital platform will include reviews and resources from global industry leaders, many with a focus on clean blue technology and alternative fuels where applicable. EVH news platform is for all to have access to the tools and information available for the future for breakthrough e-technology of the e-automotive, e-aviation, e-marine, e-motorcycle e-semi & e-truck e-motorsport industries. About EVVTOL • EVVTOL a new corporation branding itself as the most Influential global future technology show / expo event organization by strategically positioning itself to successfully facilitate EV and VTOL transportation industry clients with their needs! • EVVTOL’s goal is to showcase the EV & VTOL industry and introduce the major EV & VTOL vehicles and component manufactures in the e-tech world by unveiling and displaying cutting-edge EV & E-VTOL technology. • EVVTOL mission is to introduce multiple technology shows & expos including influential high-level EV business summits based on the dual themes of business engagement with key manufacturers working in the EV & E mobility Industry, energy vehicle information technology and charging infrastructure Industry. These events are excellent opportunities to learn about and discuss the latest future transportation technology advancements in EV& VTOL industry, and the battery energy challenges that still remain. (evvtol.org) 877-4EV-VTOL (877-438-8865)

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