TOKYO- Japan Airlines (JL) has applied riblet-shaped coating on its Boeing 787-9 aircraft to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This innovation, developed in collaboration with JAXA and Orwell, marks a significant step forward in sustainable aviation technology.
Inspired by shark skin, the riblet-shaped coating aligns with airflow to minimize surface friction. This pilot initiative will begin on international flights in mid-January, offering a real-world demonstration of its potential environmental and operational benefits.
Photo: JAXAJapan Airlines First Riblet-Shaped Coating
The riblet-shaped 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 help streamline airflow, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. JAXA’s studies reveal that forming such grooves on aircraft surfaces can decrease surface friction by approximately 5%, significantly impacting long-haul flight efficiency.
JAL has adopted Orwell’s Paint-to-Paint Method to apply the riblet-shaped coating. Unlike earlier techniques that relied on decals or films, this method uses a water-soluble mold to create the grooves directly over conventional paint.
The coating offers several advantages, including lower weight and enhanced durability, as it is less prone to peeling during flight. However, it demands skilled labor for precise application.
In this demonstration phase, JAL applied the coating to about 30% of the Boeing 787-9’s fuselage. Initial estimates suggest that this innovation could reduce drag by 0.24% during cruising.
For the Tokyo/Narita-Frankfurt route, this could save 119 tons of fuel and lower CO2 emissions by 381 tons annually.
The riblet technology has undergone rigorous testing since 2022. JAL initially applied the coating to Boeing 737-800 aircraft for durability assessments.
By November 2023, the airline expanded its focus to verifying fuel efficiency improvements under real-world conditions.
The current trial on the 787-9 aircraft aims to evaluate multiple factors, including long-term durability, aerodynamic performance, and aesthetic considerations.
If successful, JAL plans to expand the coating’s application across a broader fleet to further enhance its sustainability goals.
Photo: Japan AirlinesFuture Developments and Collaborations
Looking ahead, JAXA, JAL, and O-Well will continue to refine the riblet coating, testing its durability and aesthetic impact while expanding its application.
The results from these ongoing experiments will help to optimize fuel savings and CO2 reductions on international long-haul flights.
The collaboration represents a crucial step toward the aviation industry’s goal of achieving a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
As this riblet technology enters international service, the partnership aims to expand its applications to additional aircraft and explore further refinements to maximize its environmental and economic benefits.
Similar Tech: Lufthansa Technik AeroSHARK Fins
Lufthansa Technik and BASF developed and implemented AeroSHARK after years of research. In late 2022, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved the series conversion of two Boeing 777 aircraft types with AeroSHARK following a detailed evaluation.
To date, 17 Lufthansa Group aircraft have been equipped with AeroSHARK, with additional installations planned.
Lufthansa Technik and BASF aim to extend AeroSHARK to other aircraft types and larger surface areas, supporting airlines globally in achieving their emission reduction targets.
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