US-based aviation startup Natilus has announced its formal entry into the Indian aviation market after low-cost carrier SpiceJet placed an order for 100 of its blended-wing-body aircraft. The deal marks a major milestone for Natilus as it expands into one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets through the launch of a local subsidiary, Natilus India, which will be headquartered in Mumbai.
India currently ranks as the fifth-largest aviation market globally, according to industry estimates, making it an increasingly attractive destination for aircraft manufacturers and global airlines. Rising demand for air travel following the pandemic has strengthened traffic to and from the country, turning India into a strategic hotspot for aviation growth. Natilus sees this momentum as a strong opportunity to scale its operations beyond the United States.
Alongside the aircraft order, Natilus is also evaluating India as a potential location for a future manufacturing facility. The company aims to produce nearly 300 of its HORIZON blended-wing-body jets at the site once operational. Natilus Chief Executive Officer Aleksey Matyushev said India could eventually host a second major manufacturing base for the company, highlighting the country’s long-term strategic importance in its global expansion plans.
Earlier this year, Natilus had begun the process of selecting a site for its first manufacturing facility in the United States. The consideration of India as an additional production hub signals the company’s intention to diversify manufacturing while tapping into India’s growing aerospace capabilities and supply ecosystem.
SpiceJet confirmed that it will work closely with Natilus to support aircraft certification in India and move forward with purchasing the jets once regulatory approvals are secured. Natilus also plans to source certain manufactured components locally, further integrating its operations into India’s industrial ecosystem.
Founded in 2016 and headquartered in San Diego, California, Natilus is among a new generation of aerospace companies working to commercialize blended-wing-body aircraft designs. This aircraft concept, which merges the wings and fuselage into a single aerodynamic structure, has long been explored in defense and experimental aviation but has yet to see widespread adoption in commercial airline operations. Established aerospace giants such as Boeing and Airbus have also researched similar designs over the years.
With its partnership with SpiceJet and plans for local operations, Natilus is positioning itself to play a meaningful role in India’s aviation future, while leveraging the country’s scale, talent, and growing demand for next-generation aircraft.
