Natilus launches passenger aircraft with belly capacity

San Diego-based aircraft developer Natilus today launched the Horizon, its first blended-wing-body passenger aircraft, offering 40% more payload capacity than similar traditional tube-and-wing aircraft. Natilus designed the Horizon with a wider cross-section than tube-and-wing aircraft, enabling more space for cargo, 200 passengers and fuel storage, Natilus co-founder and Chief Executive Aleksey Matyushev told Cargo Facts . The Horizon offers 40% more payload capacity than conventional aircraft such as the A321neo or B737 Max 10. [caption id="attachment_57146284" align="aligncenter" width="1664"] The Horizon from Natilus can carry 200 passengers and belly cargo. (Courtesy/Natilus)[/caption] “Ultimately, the space for cargo will depend on our customer’s needs as our interiors are completely customizable,” Matyushev said. Natilus designed the Horizon to be compatible with existing gate operations and airport infrastructure at major airports, the company said in a release. Reduced emissions, noise Natilus’ blended-wing-body design burns 30% less fuel than tube-and-wing aircraft, according to Natilus. Like traditional aircraft, the Horizon can be converted to a freighter. However, Natilus is already developing the Kona, a purpose-built regional cargo aircraft that can carry 3.8 tonnes and has a range of 900 nautical miles, according to the company. The Kona, Natilus’ first introduced product, is on track for its first customer delivery in the late 2020s, according to the company. [caption id="attachment_57146285" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The Horizon from Natilus is compatible with existing gate operations and airport infrastructure at major airports. (Courtesy/Natilus)[/caption] The Horizon will be compatible with standard Jet A fuel as well as sustainable aviation fuel , Matyushev said. Also, the aircraft is quieter than competitors due to its engine placement away from the wings, according to the company. This design directs noise emissions behind the aircraft. Natilus plans to begin delivery of the Horizon to customers in the early 2030s. Carriers have already shown “a lot of interest” in the Horizon, Matyushev said, without specifying which ones.

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