Canada-based hybrid-electric eVTOL developer Horizon Aircraft has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Discovery Air Chile, a Chilean helicopter operator, to lease five Cavorite X7 aircraft.
The delivery is projected for 2028, marking Horizon Aircraft’s expansion into the South American market.
Discovery Air Chile plans to use the hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for a variety of applications, including emergency services, wildfire control, mining operations, and passenger transport.
“Discovery Air Chile is an ideal partner due to their deep operational expertise, established infrastructure and their understanding of vertical flight. They successfully service an existing customer base that directly aligns with the target uses of the Cavorite X7 eVTOL,” Jason O’Neill, COO of Horizon Aircraft told Zag Daily.
The Cavorite X7, Horizon’s flagship model, is designed to offer advantages in speed and sustainability, which O’Neill noted are particularly well-suited to Chile’s diverse geographic landscape.
“The ability to move point to point at speed effectively shrinks the geography from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes,” he said. “You can fly from the capital to an Andean Helicopter Landing site in less than half the time a helicopter takes and more than five times quicker than a car journey.”
The environmental credentials of the Cavorite X7 will contribute to maintaining the natural environment of Chile, as the aircraft has 74% less emissions than a helicopter that does the same range at less than half the speed.
The aircraft is expected to reduce costs for operators while maintaining high standards of safety and operational utility.
“Horizon Aircraft cannot make a difference in regional transportation in Chile without a strong partner who has experience with local regulations, rigorous maintenance programs, proven safety, and a passion for innovation,” O’Neill emphasised.
