Quebec-based Nolinor Aviation has placed an order with California-based Natilus for multiple Kona aircraft, a blended-wing-body (BWB) cargo aircraft designed for operation on rough, unpaved runways. With a 3.8-tonne payload, the pusher-configured twin turboprop is meant to operate on runways as short as 800 metres (2,625 ft) while reducing fuel consumption by as much as 30 percent when compared to conventional aircraft.
“During our visit to Natilus’s head office in San Diego last fall, we were impressed by their groundbreaking approach to aircraft design and their dedication to addressing the unique challenges of the cargo industry,” said Nolinor president Marco Prud’Homme. “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.”
According to Natilus, the aircraft will also have 50 per cent less emissions, 40 per cent more cargo, and will be 25 per cent lighter. The aircraft is expected to take to the sky in 2030.