Austrian Airlines is strengthening its push toward Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption by improving fuel efficiency through a shark skin-inspired technology on its long-haul aircraft, Travel and Tour World reported.
The airline has applied AeroShark film to its Boeing 777-200ER fleet, helping reduce drag and lower fuel consumption. The modification, tested on four aircraft, has resulted in annual savings of about 930 tonnes of fuel and a reduction of nearly 3,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
The AeroShark technology, developed by Lufthansa Technik and BASF, uses a surface design inspired by shark skin to minimise friction between the aircraft and surrounding air, improving overall efficiency.
The film has been applied to around 830 square metres of each aircraft, covering key sections of the fuselage and engine areas. The rollout was carried out after receiving approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.
According to the airline, the emissions reduction achieved through the technology is comparable to eliminating the carbon output of around 20 transatlantic flights.
The initiative forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to cut emissions and prepare for greater use of SAF in the future. By reducing overall fuel consumption, the airline aims to make the transition to cleaner fuels more effective and economically viable.
Officials said the airline will continue to monitor the performance of the modified aircraft and explore expanding similar solutions across its fleet, as the aviation sector looks for ways to balance efficiency with environmental responsibility.
