The design of Natilus’s blended wing body aircraft will generate more lift and less drag while reducing emissions by half.
The aerospace startup Natilus aims to compete with the giants in the commercial aviation industry, announcing plans to manufacture the Horizon blended wing body passenger/freight aircraft, which can carry 200 passengers from New York to London with 50% lower emissions, as reported by New Atlas on November 11.
The Horizon aircraft design by Natilus. (Photo: Natilus).
One of the promising solutions to replace the standard tube-and-wing configuration is the blended wing body (BWB), where the wings and fuselage are connected without a clear dividing line. The concept of BWB has existed since the 1920s, with a practical application in the B-1 Lancer nuclear bomber. Today, BWB has the potential to challenge popular passenger aircraft designs.
The advantage of the blended wing body design is that it eliminates the joint between the wings and fuselage, significantly reducing drag. Additionally, the integration of the wings and fuselage allows for greater lift generation rather than relying solely on the wings. This aircraft model also offers more interior space to accommodate passengers, cargo, or fuel. Ultimately, the vehicle can house hydrogen fuel tanks and supporting structures, making air travel more “green.”
Natilus aims to develop the blended wing body aircraft with the largest model, Horizon, capable of carrying 200 passengers on intercontinental flights while achieving 50% lower emissions and 30% less fuel consumption. Furthermore, its volume increases by 40% compared to traditional designs, allowing it to carry cargo equivalent to narrow-body aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320.
With future demand for passenger aircraft exceeding production capacity and Boeing facing financial troubles, this presents an opportunity for Natilus to enter the market. However, blended wing body aircraft come with some limitations. Airports will need to adapt to accommodate them, and passengers may not prefer sitting in seats too far from the windows.
“The aviation market is searching for real solutions to become sustainable, efficient, and more profitable,” said Aleksey Matyushev, co-founder and CEO of Natilus. “With Horizon, we are introducing an advanced aircraft that benefits the industry while safeguarding the planet for future generations.”
