Horizon Aircraft advances dual-use certification path through Cert Center Canada partnership

New Horizon Aircraft Ltd. announces that through its close, ongoing partnership with Flight Centre of Excellence (dba Cert Center Canada, 3C) the Company has advanced the dual-use certification pathway for its hybrid-electric VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, the Cavorite X7.

Horizon Aircraft has been targeting dual-use certification from the beginning, recognising that a high-speed, quieter VTOL aircraft would significantly improve both civil and defence missions. Partnering early with 3C, Canada's only independent flight test and certification Design Approval Organisation (DAO) approved by Transport Canada, enabled the integration of comprehensive dual-use certification considerations into the Company's initial design, leveraging 3C's extensive experience across military and civilian programmes.

Founder of 3C, Dr. John Maris stated, "The dual-use certification pathway requires specific considerations such as design for compliance to applicable military and civilian standards as well as development testing and evaluation tailored to unique military operational scenarios. Through 3C's guidance, Horizon Aircraft has carefully designed the Cavorite X7 for dual-use certification and we are truly privileged to be included as an integral part of this project from inception through to commercial and military development."

Developing a streamlined pathway to dual-use certification is relevant now more than ever as the Government of Canada prioritises national security and sovereignty through the procurement of Canadian aircraft and technologies, as outlined in its Defence Industrial Strategy launched in February 2026.

Horizon Aircraft Co-Founder and CEO Brandon Robinson commented, "As our government looks to invest in Canadian aerospace OEMs, our strong relationship with 3C will be important to ensure we remain on track for dual-use certification. Their deep experience with novel aerospace technologies, a track record spanning dozens of advanced military and civilian programmes, and a forward-looking ability to anticipate regulatory evolution makes them a critical partner for our Company."

For more information about Horizon Aircraft, please see the Company's website or watch its innovative technology in action on the Company's YouTube channel.