Nolinor, one of Canada’s leading airlines, has announced a significant deal to purchase the Kona, a cargo aircraft designed as the sibling of the Horizon.
Kona: Innovative Design and Efficiency
Like the Horizon, Kona features a radical design focused on enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. The aircraft’s wings and fuselage are designed to blend together to improve aerodynamic performance. Natilus has successfully completed a test of the Kona concept and is currently in the process of developing a full-sized prototype.
If the deal with Nolinor proceeds successfully, Kona is expected to enter commercial service in the early 2030s. This could create an opportunity for the Horizon aircraft to begin commercial operations as well.
Horizon: The Future Passenger Aircraft
Horizon stands out as Nolinor’s first passenger aircraft, planned for launch in the early 2030s. This aircraft promises a customizable cabin and seats tailored for business travel, in addition to offering a quieter flight experience.
Horizon’s aerodynamic design will provide 40% more volume per aircraft while being 25% lighter. Planned routes for Nolinor include major distances such as New York-London and Los Angeles-Boston.
Natilus: Efficient Design and Aerodynamic Advantages
Natilus, based in San Diego, is known for its highly efficient blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft designs. The BWB design features a sleek body seamlessly joined with a wide pair of wings. Although adopted by commercial giants Boeing and Airbus, this design has yet to be tested at scale.
The major advantage of this design is its aerodynamic shape, which reduces drag and increases lift. As a result, the aircraft can climb higher and generate more lift while consuming less fuel. Unlike traditional tube-shaped aircraft, this design requires less wing surface area, offering great potential within the industry.
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