Nolinor to acquire cargo aircraft from Natilus

February 5, 2025

Nolinor Aviation, a passenger charter and cargo services operator within Canada, has signed an agreement with Natilus, a San Diego-based aerospace manufacturer, to acquire multiple next-generation cargo aircraft.
The agreement secures production slots for Natilus’ Kona aircraft, a regional cargo freighter currently in development. Designed to operate on gravel and unpaved runways, the Kona aircraft is being pitched at those conducting air freight operations in remote and isolated regions.
“This partnership marks a pivotal step in our commitment to innovation and operational excellence,” said Marco Prud’Homme, President of Nolinor Aviation.
“During our visit to Natilus’ head office in San Diego last [autumn], we were impressed by their groundbreaking approach to aircraft design and their dedication to addressing the unique challenges of the cargo industry.
“The Kona’s gravel runway capability is a perfect match for our operations, and we are eager to leverage its potential to better serve our customers across Canada and beyond.”
The Kona boasts a 3.8-metric-ton payload capacity and can take off and land on runways as short as 800 metres. Its blended-wing-body design also enhances fuel efficiency, reducing consumption by 30% compared to traditional aircraft. The aircraft offers a range of 900 nautical miles.
Developed in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) and Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR), the Kona aircraft aligns with Nolinor’s commitment to enhancing cargo transport capabilities while maintaining sustainability and efficiency, the company said.
Natilus CEO Aleksey Matyushev said: “We are honoured to partner with Nolinor Aviation, a company known for its leadership in serving remote and rugged areas.
“The Kona cargo aircraft is designed to redefine air freight with its efficiency, adaptability, and innovative features. This agreement showcases how forward-thinking operators like Nolinor are shaping the future of aviation.”