TOKYO – Japan Airlines (JL) has applied a riblet-like coating to its Boeing 787-9 planes to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Developed in collaboration with JAXA and Orwell, this innovation represents a significant step forward in sustainable aviation technology.
A riblet-shaped coating, inspired by shark skin, aligns with airflow to minimize surface friction. The pilot will begin on international flights in mid-January and will demonstrate the potential environmental and operational benefits.
Japan Airlines’ first riblet-shaped coating
The riblet-like coating, designed by Japan Airlines (JL) in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Orwell, mimics the fine grooves found in shark skin.
These grooves streamline airflow, reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. JAXA research revealed that forming such grooves on aircraft surfaces reduces surface friction by about 5%, which can have a significant impact on the efficiency of long-distance flights.
JAL uses Orwell’s paint-to-paint method for painting riblets. Unlike previous techniques that relied on decals or films, this method uses a water-soluble mold to create grooves directly on top of traditional paint.
This coating has several benefits, including being less likely to peel off during flight, making it lighter and more durable. However, it requires skilled labor to apply accurately.
During this demonstration phase, JAL applied the coating to approximately 30% of the fuselage of the Boeing 787-9. Early estimates suggest this innovation could reduce drag by 0.24% during cruise.
For the Tokyo/Narita-Frankfurt route, this could save 119 tonnes of fuel per year and reduce CO2 emissions by 381 tonnes.
The libretto technology has been undergoing rigorous testing since 2022. JAL initially applied the coating to Boeing 737-800 aircraft for durability evaluation.
By November 2023, the company expanded its focus to verify fuel efficiency improvements under real-world conditions.
Current testing of the 787-9 aircraft is aimed at evaluating multiple factors, including long-term durability, aerodynamic performance, and aesthetic considerations.
If successful, JAL plans to expand the application of the coating to a wider range of aircraft to further increase its sustainability goals.
Future developments and collaboration
JAXA, JAL, and Orwell will continue to improve the riblet coating, expanding its applications and testing its durability and aesthetic impact.
The results of these ongoing experiments will help optimize fuel savings and CO2 reductions on long-haul international flights.
This partnership is an important step towards the aviation industry’s goal of achieving a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
As this libretto technology enters international service, the partnership aims to expand its application to other aircraft and explore further improvements to maximize environmental and economic benefits.
Similar technology: Lufthansa Technik AeroSHARK fin
Lufthansa Technik and BASF developed and introduced AeroSHARK after many years of research. In late 2022, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved series conversion of two Boeing 777 aircraft to AeroSHARK after a detailed evaluation.
To date, 17 Lufthansa Group aircraft are equipped with AeroSHARK, with additional installations planned.
Lufthansa Technik and BASF aim to extend AeroSHARK to other aircraft types and larger surface areas to help airlines around the world meet their emissions reduction targets.
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