(NewsNation) — The U.S. aviation startup Natilus is climbing to new heights after announcing in December that Indian airline SpiceJet has placed an order for 100 of its blended-wing jets.
The California-based startup describes the HORIZON BWB as a direct challenge to “industry leaders like the Boeing 737 Max and Airbus A320.” According to the website, the jet’s unique shape allows it to carry 200 passengers, with a range of 3,500 nautical miles. It promises an “eco-friendly” air travel option with improved fuel efficiency, 40% greater capacity and 50% lower operating costs.
Reuters reports that Natilus announced earlier this year that it had begun the process of selecting its’ first U.S. manufacturing site. The outlet also notes that the startup is considering India as a possible location for a manufacturing facility and aiming to build roughly 300 HORIZON jets at the site once complete.
Natilus is currently seeking approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, with Reuters noting the startup expects to hit the market by the start of 2030.