Natilus has unveiled a new version of its “flying wing” Horizon Evo and is seeking streamlined certification for early 2030s service
The American Stolen company presented its “flying wing” architecture passenger aircraft, the Horizon Evoof the new configuration, confirming the FAA its certification strategy and its plan for integration into commercial fleets in the early 2030s.
The model is a blended wing body (BWB) concept, in which the fuselage is integrally connected to the wing, has undergone a major redesign. The most important change is a two-story design: the upper deck is designed for passengers, while the lower deck is exclusively for freight.
Two decks to speed certification
According to the company, the redesign was done after discussions with the FAA and airlines. The two-tier solution increases the number of emergency exits and aims to simplify the certification process while maintaining compatibility with existing airport systems. with passenger bridges and ground handling equipment.
In the previous concept, the number of windows was limited. The new design larger windows and upper luggage compartments contains on the upper deck, so the passenger experience is closer to the standard of current commercial aircraft.
Capacity, range and estimated power
Horizon Evo can operate in different cabin layouts:
- 150 passengers in three classes
- 200 passengers in two classes
- Up to 250 passengers in a single-class configuration
On the lower deck is the Natilus 12 LD3-45 containers calculates its placement, increasing logistical flexibility during commercial operation.
In terms of performance, the company cruise speed of at least Mach 0.78 and a range of about 6,500 kilometers estimates.
Drives and materials
The Horizon Evo is expected to be equipped with two engines. Natilus first mentioned a Pratt & Whitney PW1500G or the CFM LEAP the possibility of using turbofan engines. The project is widely used carbon fiber composite materialsin order to reduce mass and improve structural efficiency.
Operating cost reduction promise
According to the company, the BWB configuration fuel savings of up to 30% and operating cost reduction of up to 50% can result. Natilus also announced that with over 570 pre-orders has, the total value of which is approx 24 billion US dollars.
Commissioning date
The goal is to put Horizon Evo into commercial operation in the early 2030sdepending on the progress of the certification process and the conversion of preliminary agreements into final contracts.
With the redesign, Natilus seeks to strike a balance between structural innovation and regulatory requirements, positioning the Horizon Evo as a high-efficiency alternative for medium-haul routes.
+ An experimental laminar wing was tested by NASA in real flight with an F-15B
Source: Stolen. The content is created with the help of artificial intelligence and verified by the editors.
