New Horizon Aircraft Ltd. has selected BETA Technologies, Inc. to supply advanced flight control computers and customized software for its Cavorite X7 hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft. The partnership aims to integrate BETA's fly-by-wire (FBW) platform to enhance precision, stability, and safety as Horizon advances the development, testing, and certification of the Cavorite X7.

BETA's FBW platform incorporates safety-critical software, system redundancy, and a flexible architecture designed specifically for modern VTOL aircraft. The flight control computer (FCC) supports certification pathways for FAA Part 21.17(b) powered-lift, Part 23, and Part 25 applications, as well as future international regulatory frameworks including Transport Canada and EASA requirements.

Strategic Integration and Benefits

By utilizing the same FCC hardware as BETA's own fleet, both companies expect to benefit from shared economies of scale, which will reduce component costs and strengthen manufacturing efficiency. The compact system is designed to meet the stringent environmental and lightning protection requirements for eVTOL operations in both FAA and international airspace.

Leadership Perspectives

Kyle Clark, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BETA Technologies, emphasized the rigor of the technology, stating that the flight control computers were built to meet the most rigorous standards in the industry. He noted that the systems are compact, purpose-built for powered-lift, and designed with the certification discipline that DAL-A software and hardware development demands.

Tom Brassington, Chief Technology Officer of Horizon Aircraft, described the selection process as methodical. He cited BETA's sophisticated VTOL-specific FBW platform, a shared engineering philosophy, and the ability to support rigorous long-term program requirements as key factors in the decision.

Technical Specifications

BETA's FCCs were developed in-house to provide the capability, speed, and reliability demands of modern powered-lift aircraft. The architecture allows for the seamless integration of mission controls for autonomous aircraft operations in the future. As a merchant supplier of safety-critical components, BETA has the in-house capability to develop hardware and software up to Development Assurance Level A (DAL-A), the highest level of rigor recognized by the FAA and international regulators.