February 16, 2025
Horizon Aircraft: Hybrid eVTOLs Could Transform Irish Air Ambulance Services

Horizon Aircraft: Hybrid eVTOLs Could Transform Irish Air Ambulance Services

New research from Horizon Aircraft suggests that hybrid electric Vertical TakeOff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft could revolutionize Ireland's air ambulance services.
A Horizon Aircraft eVTOL Cavorite X7 aircraft.
Photo Credit: Horizon Aircraft

New research from Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) suggests that hybrid electric Vertical TakeOff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft could revolutionize Irish air ambulance services.

These advanced aircraft promise faster patient transfers and significant cost reductions for operators. This could mark a potential turning point in emergency medical transportation.

The innovative hybrid eVTOLs can reach anywhere in Ireland using current helipads. This is achievable, thanks to their impressive 800 km range with fuel reserves.

Compared to traditional twin-engine helicopters, these aircraft deliver twice the speed and range while cutting operational costs by 50%. This breakthrough in efficiency could make rapid medical transport more accessible across the country, particularly in remote and rural areas.

Potential Advantages for Medevac Operations


Transit Time

Medical evacuations will see dramatic improvements in transfer times. This is a critical factor in emergency situations where minutes can make the difference between life and death.

Horizon cites the example of a patient journey from Letterkenny University Hospital to Dublin Hospital. The flight, spanning 230 km, would take just 35 minutes in Horizon’s Cavorite X7.

This same trip requires nearly an hour by an Irish air ambulance helicopter or three-and-a-half hours by road ambulance. This example highlights the transformative potential of this technology for patient care.

Operator Cost Savings

The financial benefits extend beyond just operational efficiency. The Cavorite X7 reduces cost per mile by 74% compared to twin helicopters on the Letterkenny-Dublin route.

Additional savings come from reduced hangarage costs. The aircraft’s folding wings require only 40% of the space needed for helicopters. These cost reductions could enable healthcare providers to expand their emergency transport services while maintaining budget constraints.

“Hybrid eVTOLs offer compelling advantages as air ambulances,” explains Phil Kelly, Senior Vice President of Business Development. “They’re twice as fast, 50% more economical, and produce just a quarter of the carbon emissions of helicopters.”

“The Cavorite X7’s 800 km range easily accommodates medical personnel, equipment, and patients across Ireland. This makes it an ideal solution for emergency medical transport.”

Beyond Medical Services


Beyond medical services, these aircraft could transform Irish tourism and regional connectivity. Travelers could reach Belmullet on the Wild Atlantic Way from Dublin Airport in just 40 minutes, compared to 70 minutes by helicopter or four-plus hours by car.

This enhanced accessibility could boost tourism in remote areas and strengthen connections between urban and rural communities.

Investment experts anticipate significant growth in eVTOL air ambulance services, reflecting growing confidence in the technology’s potential.

Top 3 Growth Areas

A global study of fund managers controlling $82.4 billion in assets identified medical services, personal transport, and fire services as the top three growth areas for hybrid eVTOLs over the next five years.

A Cavorite X7 eVTOL proposed as an Irish air ambulance aircraft replacement.

The Cavorite X7


The Cavorite X7’s innovative design showcases several groundbreaking features, including a 5,500 lbs gross weight with 1,500 lbs useful load capacity, maximum speed of 450 km per hour, and over 800 km range with fuel reserves.

Its hybrid electric power system enables in-flight battery recharging, eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure. The aircraft operates in traditional configuration for 98% of flight time, enhancing safety and simplifying certification processes.

Horizon Aircraft’s approach emphasizes practical, mission-first designs that prioritize safety and operational efficiency. Their hybrid technology allows the Cavorite X7 to function primarily as a conventional aircraft while maintaining vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.

This balanced approach could accelerate the adoption of eVTOL technology in critical services like emergency medical transport, potentially revolutionizing how we think about air ambulance services in Ireland and beyond.

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