Lufthansa Technik is taking a significant step toward greener aviation by pursuing certification for its innovative AeroSHARK riblet film on the Airbus A330ceo.
Developed in partnership with BASF Coatings, this drag-reducing technology is already transforming fuel efficiency for commercial aircraft.
The A330-200 and A330-300 models will be the first Airbus aircraft to adopt AeroSHARK, with certification sought through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).
This will allow modifications to the fuselage and engine nacelles, boosting efficiency for these widely used aircraft.
Why the A330ceo?
The decision to certify AeroSHARK for the A330ceo is strategic. With around 1,000 A330-200 and A330-300 aircraft operating globally, this model plays a major role in aviation’s fuel consumption and emissions.
Andrew Muirhead, Vice President of Original Equipment Innovation at Lufthansa Technik, explains the choice. “The A330ceo’s widespread use and long operational life make it an ideal candidate for AeroSHARK. The potential for cost savings and environmental benefits is substantial.”
By reducing drag, AeroSHARK can lower fuel use and emissions, aligning with the industry’s sustainability goals.
How AeroSHARK Works
AeroSHARK mimics the unique structure of sharkskin, using a riblet film to minimize aerodynamic drag. This effect is most pronounced during cruise flight, making long-haul aircraft like the A330 perfect for the technology.
The riblet structure reduces friction between the aircraft’s surface and the air, cutting fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by about one percent.
While this may seem small, the savings add up significantly for airlines operating large fleets over long distances.
Lufthansa Technik and BASF Coatings have refined this technology for the demanding conditions of daily airline operations.
AeroSHARK is currently the only certified riblet solution for commercial aviation. It has already been successfully applied to Boeing 777-300ER, 777-200ER, and 777F models, proving its reliability and effectiveness.
Certification Process and Timeline
Certifying AeroSHARK for the A330ceo involves rigorous testing to meet strict aviation safety standards. Each aircraft model and application area requires its own STC, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Lufthansa Technik actively conducts detailed analyses and test campaigns, aiming to complete certification by 2026. Once approved, airlines can retrofit their A330 fleets, unlocking fuel and cost savings.
Expanding Environmental Benefits
The A330 is the second-most delivered wide-body aircraft after the Boeing 777, with a long operational life ahead. This makes it a prime candidate for AeroSHARK’s expansion.
Frank Naber, Senior Vice President of Global Surface Treatment at BASF Coatings, adds further comment.
“Sharkskin technology is a game-changer for fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. Certifying it for the A330ceo will extend these benefits to more aircraft, supporting sustainable aviation.”
To date, AeroSHARK has been applied to 28 Boeing 777 aircraft and one Lufthansa Boeing 747 testbed.
These modified planes have logged over 232,000 flight hours, saving more than 13,000 metric tons of jet fuel and cutting CO₂ emissions by over 42,000 metric tons.
As more airlines adopt AeroSHARK, they will likely increase these numbers, strengthening its impact on eco-friendly aviation.
Looking Ahead
Lufthansa Technik’s push to certify AeroSHARK for the A330ceo marks a milestone in sustainable aviation.
By reducing drag and fuel consumption, this technology offers airlines a practical way to lower costs and emissions.
With certification on track for 2026, the A330ceo will soon join the growing list of aircraft benefiting from this innovative solution, paving the way for a greener future in aviation.