The Horizon promises a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions, 25% lighter weight, and a 40% increase in cargo capacity compared to conventional aircraft. This efficiency stems from the baseline aerodynamic advantage of the BWB design. Although the Horizon will share some similarities with other BWB designs, such as Long Beach-based JetZero’s tailless model, Natilus’s concept will feature twin vertical tails and closely grouped aft-mounted engines, with a more conventional landing gear configuration.

A key feature of the Horizon is its compatibility with existing gate operations and airport infrastructure, a strategic advantage that will facilitate smoother integration into commercial fleets. According to Aleksey Matyushev, Natilus’s CEO and founder, the design aligns with the industry’s ongoing efforts to meet 2050 net-zero emission targets, providing solutions that enhance sustainability and profitability.

Former Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg, now with aerospace investment firm New Vista Capital, also voiced support for the project, signalling the broader aviation sector’s recognition of the Horizon’s potential to revolutionise fleet operations.

In parallel, Natilus continues to develop the Kona cargo drone, which is set to enter service by the late 2020s. With a range of 900 nautical miles and a payload capacity of 3.8 tons, the Kona will offer multiple propulsion options, including a hydrogen fuel-cell system from ZeroAvia. Initial deliveries are expected by 2026, with a robust order-book featuring major players such as Ameriflight, Volatus Aerospace, and Flexport.

Natilus’s Horizon and Kona projects reflect a transformative shift towards sustainability and efficiency in aviation, pushing the boundaries of what future air travel and logistics could achieve.