#Aerospace #Switzerland #Natilus #Kuehne+Nagel #Schindellegi

Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus: A New Era in Air Freight Logistics

In a groundbreaking move for the air freight industry, Kuehne+Nagel, a global leader in logistics services, has teamed up with aerospace manufacturer Natilus to explore the potential of integrating advanced blended-wing-body aircraft into commercial air logistics. This strategic partnership was announced on May 28, 2025, and aims to evaluate not just the operational feasibility, but also the economic and environmental benefits of adopting Natilus’s innovative aircraft models—specifically the KONA and HORIZON.

A Shift Towards Sustainable Solutions

Kuehne+Nagel has long been committed to enhancing the sustainability of air freight operations. With this collaboration, the focus will be on precise route modeling, emissions accounting, and assessing operational costs. The two companies aim to harness Kuehne+Nagel's extensive expertise in air logistics to determine how blended-wing-body aircraft can improve operational efficiencies and reduce carbon footprints in freight forwarding.

Natilus’s unique aircraft are designed to provide substantial improvements in aviation economics by cutting fuel consumption by 30% while increasing payload capability by 40%. The goal is to create a more efficient logistics framework that not only meets the growing demands of global trade but also promotes sustainable practices.

The Role of Innovation in Logistics

This partnership could redefine logistics services as we know them today. By integrating blended-wing designs into existing fleets, Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus plan to enhance their service offerings significantly. Holger Ketz, Senior Vice President of Network and Carrier Management at Kuehne+Nagel, emphasized the company's ongoing pursuit of more environmentally friendly and cost-effective air cargo solutions. He stated that this initiative represents their commitment to sustainability and innovation in the logistics sector.

The logistics giant serves around 400,000 customers worldwide, and its collaboration with Natilus marks an important step toward greener operational practices within the industry. The companies are set to provide a comprehensive assessment of potential CO2 reductions achievable through the integration of these new aircraft, fostering a cleaner logistics environment.

Industry Engagement and Future Steps

As part of their collaboration, Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus will engage with selected air freight carriers to showcase the benefits of blending their operations with the high-efficiency capabilities of blended-wing-body aircraft. This approach not only signals a shift in how logistics companies will operate in the future, but it serves as a model for others in the sector to follow.

Aleksey Matyushev, Co-Founder and CEO of Natilus, echoed the sentiment of progress and potential, explaining that their partnership will pave the way for the logistics industry to better understand the vast advantages of blended-wing-body technology. This could set a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in freight and air transportation.

Conclusion: A Vision for Sustainable Air Logistics

The partnership between Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus represents a significant leap forward in the quest for sustainability within the logistics sector. By aligning innovation with operational demands, these companies are not just adapting to changes in air freight logistics; they are actively shaping its future. As the logistics landscape evolves, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of technology and partnership in addressing the pressing challenges of emissions and efficiency.

This innovative vision is something to keep an eye on as Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus work toward transforming commercial air freight into a more sustainable venture, ultimately redefining what is possible in logistics for years to come.