Japan has taken a notable step toward greener aviation with the deployment of riblet-shaped surface coating on a ZIPAIR Boeing 787-8, operated under Japan Airlines. The aircraft, registered JA851J, began international service on January 27, 2026, marking the first time such advanced aerodynamic technology has been applied to a ZIPAIR fleet aircraft, Travel And Tour World reported.
The riblet coating, inspired by the texture of shark skin, reduces aerodynamic drag during cruise, allowing the aircraft to burn less fuel and lower carbon emissions. Developed through a collaboration between Japan Airlines, ZIPAIR, JAXA, and O-Well Corporation, the initiative integrates biomimicry-based engineering directly into the aircraft surface without altering its structure or propulsion systems.
“The goal is to translate research into real-world operational benefits,” said a spokesperson for Japan Airlines. “By improving efficiency on long-haul flights from Japan, we can achieve measurable environmental gains while maintaining operational continuity.”
The coating was applied using an advanced Paint-to-Paint Method at Narita International Airport, which allowed work to be completed without removing existing paint. The process included precision alignment tools and crimping jigs to ensure optimal placement of the microscopic grooves, making the application faster and more scalable across active fleets.
Previous applications of riblet technology on a Japan Airlines Boeing 787-9 demonstrated the system’s effectiveness. Following expansion of the coated area, JAXA estimated cruise drag reductions of 0.31 percent, translating into fuel savings of approximately 154 tons per aircraft per year on long-haul routes such as Narita to Frankfurt. Corresponding CO₂ emissions fell by an estimated 492 tons annually.
Research is ongoing in Japan to develop next-generation sharp single bevel riblets, which could further reduce drag by up to 6.5 percent. Trials are assessing durability under various weather conditions to ensure consistent performance across international routes.
The project has been facilitated under JAXA’s Space Innovation through Partnership and Co-creation (J-SPARC) framework, linking aerospace research with commercial airline operations. This partnership model highlights Japan’s approach to turning aerospace innovation into operational solutions that benefit both the airline industry and the environment.
As aviation worldwide faces pressure to decarbonize, the ZIPAIR Boeing 787’s riblet coating offers a practical example of incremental technology reducing fuel consumption and emissions without waiting for new aircraft designs or propulsion systems. Expansion of the technology to additional aircraft and operators could strengthen its role in global efforts to make aviation more sustainable.
