JAL to Test Fuel-Efficiency with ‘Sharkskin’ Coating on 787-9 Aircraft for International Flights

Japan Airlines (JAL), in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Orwell, a company specializing in coatings, has applied a riblet-shaped coating to the fuselage of a Boeing 787-9 aircraft (registration number: JA868J) which is expected to improve fuel efficiency. This aircraft will commence operations on international routes from mid-January to demonstrate its fuel efficiency benefits.

The riblet shape is inspired by shark skin and consists of fine grooves. According to JAXA’s research, forming similar fine groove structures on the aircraft’s external panels to align with the airflow during flight can reduce surface friction by about 5%.

JAL has adopted Orwell’s technology (Paint-to-Paint Method) which uses a water-soluble mold to form the riblet-shaped coating and applies it over conventional paint. While others have previously applied riblets using decals or films, according to JAL, this is the first time an aircraft with a riblet-shaped coating has been operated on international flights.

Compared to film application, coating does not significantly increase the aircraft’s weight and is less likely to peel off during flight. However, the application process requires skilled labor.

JAL began durability testing of riblet-shaped coatings on Boeing 737-800 aircraft in July 2022 and has been verifying their fuel efficiency improvements since November 2023.

In this demonstration, the coating was applied to approximately 30% of the 787-9 aircraft’s fuselage. According to estimates by JAL and JAXA, this could reduce drag by 0.24% during cruising, resulting in a potential reduction of about 119 tons of fuel consumption and approximately 381 tons of CO2 emissions if operated on the Tokyo/Narita-Frankfurt route for one year.

The three parties will continue to verify the durability, aesthetics, and fuel efficiency improvements of the coating, aiming to further expand the application area.