Natilus takes on Airbus and Boeing with blended-wing airliner

Nov. 12, 2024
The advantage of the blended wing design is that it doesn't have a join between the wing and the fuselage, which greatly reduces drag.

SAN DIEGO - Aerospace startup Natilus is taking on the biggest players in civil aviation, unveiling its plans to build its Horizon Blended Wing Body (BWB) passenger/cargo liner that can carry 200 passengers from New York to London with 50% lower emissions, David Szondy writes for New AtlasContinue reading original article.

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

12 November 2024 - The company says its design aims to address growing demands for efficiency and reduced emissions in commercial aviation. The Horizon, which can operate on long-haul routes such as Los Angeles to Boston and New York to London, has a BWB design that offers improved fuel efficiency and expanded interior space, aiming to burn 30% less fuel than traditional aircraft.

The debut comes as the aviation industry faces pressure to meet net-zero emissions goals amid a projected rise in demand for both passenger and cargo aircraft. Natilus CEO and co-founder Aleksey Matyushev said the Horizon is intended to provide “real solutions to become more sustainable, more efficient, and more profitable,” adding that the design could help ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

The BWB structure gives Horizon a 40% increase in volume compared to conventional tube-and-wing models, allowing for customizable cabin layouts and quieter operation. Natilus says the Horizon’s design will work with existing airport infrastructure and gate operations, making it compatible with current major airport setups.

Related: Natilus adopts Siemens software to expedite development of next-gen cargo aircraft

Related: Why Alaska Airlines is investing in a jet that’s like nothing you’ve seen before

Related: Natilus unveils 'Horizon' blended-wing-body aircraft

Jamie Whitney, Senior Editor
Military + Aerospace Electronics

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!