Natilus to build BWB aircraft in the US as search for first site underway
March 26, 2025
San Diego-based blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft designer Natilus is on the hunt to secure its first manufacturing site, having confirmed that its upcoming family of aircraft will be built in the US.
“By manufacturing the world’s first commercial blended-wing-body aircraft domestically, we hope to strengthen the US’ position in the aviation industry,” commented Natilus head of business development Nolan Giblin.
An initial 250,000 square ft manufacturing site will produce Natilus’ regional freighter, the ‘Kona’, which promises a payload of 3.8 tons and a range of 900nm. Combining a carbon fibre airframe with existing engine technology, Natlius estimates the Kona will offer “game-changing improvements in operational costs” with a 30% reduction in fuel consumption enabled, in part, by the aerodynamic efficiencies offered by the novel shape.
The facility will have the capacity for 60 aircraft annually and create 300 full-time jobs, with Natilus prioritising regions “with strong state and local incentive programmes”. The facility must also possess adequate runway length and airspace clearing for testing. Having received interest from “major real estate development partners,” Natilus expects to announce further details in the coming months.
Confirmation of a US location follows the implementation of well-publicised trade tariffs to neighbouring countries such as Canada, with “new tariffs on critical materials… expected to exacerbate aviation supply chain challenges and further delay deliveries of cargo and passenger aircraft,” explained Natilus. It therefore hopes to mitigate the impact of potential trade restrictions through domestic production; joining the likes of Boom Supersonic, Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation in establishing manufacturing hubs in the US.
Although the first facility will subsequently expanded to accommodate production of Natilus’ upcoming 200-passenger ‘Horizon’ aircraft, a second development phase will see the company look more further afield for its second facility. Potential locations outside the US include the UAE, India and Saudi Arabia, with the site – anticipated to be one of the largest of its kind – expected to come online in the early 2030s.
