Sustainable Aviation
Japan Airlines Launches First Riblet-Coated Aircraft for Greener Skies
Japan Airlines Pioneers Riblet-Coated Aircraft for Sustainable Aviation
In a groundbreaking move, Japan Airlines (JAL), in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and O-Well Corporation, has unveiled the world’s first riblet-coated aircraft set for international service. This innovative technology, inspired by the drag-reducing properties of shark skin, represents a significant leap forward in sustainable aviation. The Boeing 787-9, equipped with this cutting-edge coating, is scheduled to commence operations in mid-January 2025, marking a new era in fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious air travel.
The riblet-shaped coating, applied to most of the aircraft’s fuselage, is designed to minimize aerodynamic drag, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. This initiative aligns with global efforts to decarbonize the aviation industry, which has long been under scrutiny for its environmental impact. By integrating this technology, JAL is setting a new benchmark for innovation and sustainability in aviation, demonstrating how collaboration between industry leaders can drive meaningful change.
This article explores the significance of riblet technology, its development, and its potential to revolutionize the aviation industry. We will delve into the science behind riblets, the collaborative efforts of JAL, JAXA, and O-Well, and the tangible benefits this technology offers for long-haul flights. Additionally, we will examine the broader implications of this innovation for the future of sustainable air travel.
The Science Behind Riblet Technology
Riblet technology draws inspiration from nature, specifically the skin of sharks. Shark skin features microscopic grooves that reduce drag and friction as the animal moves through water. Scientists have long studied this phenomenon, known as the “riblet effect,” and have sought to replicate it in various applications, including aviation. By applying riblet-shaped coatings to aircraft, engineers aim to achieve similar drag-reducing benefits, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
The riblet coating developed by JAL, JAXA, and O-Well uses the innovative Paint-to-Paint Method. Unlike traditional decal or film-based riblet processing, this method integrates riblet shapes directly into the paint film. This approach not only enhances durability but also reduces the weight of the coating, further contributing to fuel savings. Extensive wind tunnel tests and numerical simulations conducted by JAXA have confirmed the drag reduction effects of this technology, particularly on large aircraft like the Boeing 787-9.
One of the key advantages of the Paint-to-Paint Method is its scalability. O-Well’s development of a riblet coating system suitable for larger aircraft has enabled the application to extend to the upper fuselage, maximizing fuel efficiency during long-haul international flights. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in the practical application of riblet technology in commercial aviation.
“The riblet coating reduces drag by 0.24% during cruising, translating to an annual saving of approximately 119 tons of fuel and a reduction of 381 tons of CO2 emissions.” – JAXA
Testing and Advancements in Riblet Technology
The journey toward this milestone began in July 2022, when JAL first tested the durability of the riblet coating on its domestic Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These initial tests confirmed the coating’s resilience under real-world conditions, paving the way for larger-scale applications. By November 2023, the technology had progressed to a full-scale application on the lower fuselage of a Boeing 787-9, where its fuel efficiency benefits were rigorously assessed.
One of the most significant achievements of this collaboration is the successful accumulation of over 1,500 flight hours for the O-Well method aircraft and over 750 flight hours for the Nikon method aircraft. These extensive tests have demonstrated the durability and performance of the riblet coating, providing a solid foundation for its deployment on international routes. The results have been overwhelmingly positive, with the coating showing no signs of wear or degradation even after prolonged use.
Looking ahead, JAL, JAXA, and O-Well plan to continue their collaboration to validate the riblet coating’s performance in terms of durability, aesthetics, and fuel efficiency on long-haul international routes. They also aim to expand the scope of the technology’s application, potentially extending it to other aircraft models and further enhancing its impact on sustainable aviation.
Tangible Benefits for Long-Haul Operations
The application of riblet coating to the Boeing 787-9 offers significant benefits for long-haul operations. During cruising, the coating reduces drag by 0.24%, which translates to an annual saving of approximately 119 tons of fuel and a reduction of 381 tons of CO2 emissions. To put this into perspective, the carbon savings are equivalent to the annual CO2 absorption of roughly 27,000 cedar trees.
These savings are particularly impactful for long-haul flights, where fuel consumption is highest. By improving fuel efficiency, the riblet coating not only reduces operational costs for airlines but also contributes to the broader goal of decarbonizing the aviation industry. This technology represents a practical and scalable solution for reducing the environmental impact of air travel, making it a valuable tool in the fight against climate change.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the riblet coating also enhances the operational efficiency of aircraft. By reducing drag, the coating allows planes to fly more smoothly, potentially improving passenger comfort and reducing wear and tear on the aircraft. This dual benefit of environmental and operational efficiency makes riblet technology a win-win for airlines and passengers alike.
Conclusion
The introduction of riblet-coated aircraft by Japan Airlines marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable aviation. By leveraging the drag-reducing properties of shark skin, JAL, JAXA, and O-Well have developed a technology that not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces carbon emissions. This innovation underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the environmental challenges facing the aviation industry.
As the first riblet-coated aircraft prepares to enter international service in January 2025, the aviation industry stands on the brink of a new era. The success of this initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of riblet technology, potentially transforming the way we think about air travel. With continued advancements and collaboration, the dream of greener skies may soon become a reality.
FAQ
What is riblet technology?
Riblet technology is a drag-reducing coating inspired by the microscopic grooves on shark skin. It is applied to aircraft to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
How does the riblet coating improve fuel efficiency?
The riblet coating reduces aerodynamic drag by 0.24% during cruising, leading to significant fuel savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
When will the riblet-coated aircraft enter service?
The first riblet-coated Boeing 787-9 is scheduled to commence international operations in mid-January 2025.
Sources: Travel And Tour World
Sustainable Aviation
Infinium’s Project Atlas Selected for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Supply
Infinium’s Project Atlas chosen by SABA to supply sustainable aviation fuel certificates with American Airlines handling delivery and logistics.
This article is based on an official press release from Infinium.
In a significant step for the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market, Infinium and the Sustainable Aviation Buyers Alliance (SABA) have announced that Infinium’s Project Atlas was selected to supply SAF certificates under SABA’s next-generation procurement initiative. According to the official press release, the proposal was submitted jointly with American Airlines, which will take delivery of the physical fuel and manage logistics.
The agreement aims to accelerate the deployment of high-integrity, next-generation fuel pathways by converting corporate demand into long-term, bankable supply agreements. By securing these offtake contracts, developers like Infinium can better support project financing and scale their operations to meet the aviation industry’s growing decarbonization targets.
Project Atlas and eSAF Production Targets
Project Atlas is an electrofuel (eSAF) development project by Infinium Energy. The company stated in its release that the facility has a planned capacity of approximately 100,000 metric tons per annum (MTPA) and targets a 95 percent reduction in carbon intensity compared to traditional fossil jet fuel. This new facility builds upon the company’s previous commercial deployment efforts, specifically Project Pathfinder in Corpus Christi and Project Roadrunner in Pecos.
In addition to supplying SABA’s corporate buyers, Infinium noted that Project Atlas will produce EU-compliant RFNBO (Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin) eSAF. This positions the project to serve the European market, where the ReFuelEU Aviation regulation mandates a 2 percent SAF blending requirement that began in 2025, scaling up to 20 percent by 2035. A dedicated sub-mandate for synthetic eSAF is also slated to take effect in 2030.
“Being selected for this SABA offtake agreement is pivotal for Project Atlas,” said Robert Schuetzle, CEO of Infinium, in the press release. “The agreement reflects growing commercial demand for next-generation power-to-liquid fuels and supports the continued development of new domestic production capacity.”
The “Book and Claim” Model
SABA’s procurement strategy relies on a “book and claim” model. According to the announcement, corporate customers purchase sustainable aviation fuel certificates (SAFc) to invest in SAF and claim the associated environmental benefits against their Scope 3 emissions. Meanwhile, the physical fuel is delivered to an aircraft operator, in this case, American Airlines.
American Airlines will serve as the physical user of the eSAF, marking its second eSAF agreement with Infinium. The airline’s participation enables the allocation of emissions reductions to SABA’s corporate members without requiring the fuel to be loaded onto the specific flights those corporate employees take.
“We believe voluntary corporate demand can be a catalytic spark to help new SAF production facilities get off the ground,” said Kim Carnahan, CEO of the Center for Green Market Activation and head of the SABA secretariat, in the company statement.
Jill Blickstein, Vice President of Sustainability at American Airlines, added in the release that working with Infinium helps accelerate the development of SAF technologies that have the potential to reach commercial scale at lower prices.
AirPro News analysis
We note that the selection of Project Atlas highlights a critical mechanism in the modern SAF economy: decoupling the environmental attributes of sustainable fuels from their physical delivery. For power-to-liquid eSAF pathways, which are highly scalable but currently capital-intensive, securing long-term, binding offtake agreements is often the final hurdle before reaching a Final Investment Decision (FID).
By aggregating corporate demand through SABA, which launched this specific procurement round in May 2025, buyers provide the financial certainty needed to build new plants. With initial production at Project Atlas expected by 2029, this deal underscores how corporate sustainability budgets are increasingly being leveraged to underwrite the physical infrastructure required for aviation’s energy transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eSAF?
Electro-sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) is a type of synthetic fuel produced using renewable energy and captured carbon dioxide. Infinium’s process converts waste CO₂ and renewable power into a drop-in aviation fuel that is compatible with existing aircraft engines and fueling infrastructure.
How does the book and claim system work for SAF?
The book and claim system allows companies to purchase the environmental benefits of SAF (the “claim”) via certificates, even if the physical fuel (the “book”) is used by a different operator. This enables corporate buyers to reduce their reported climate emissions while funding the production of sustainable fuels.
Sources
Photo Credit: Infinium
Sustainable Aviation
RECARO and Iberia Launch Sustainable Seating Trial on A320neo
RECARO partners with Iberia to trial sustainable economy seats on an Airbus A320neo using upcycled fishing nets and real wood inlays.
This article is based on an official press release from RECARO Aircraft Seating.
RECARO Aircraft Seating has announced a new operational trial in partnership with Spanish flag carrier Iberia, introducing certified sustainable seating features to commercial service. Starting this spring, passengers flying on a selected Iberia Airbus A320neo will experience economy class seats upgraded with environmentally conscious materials.
According to the company’s press release, the trial involves the installation of 186 RECARO R1 and R2 economy class seats in a hybrid cabin layout. The seats, provided as part of a modification kit, will remain in service for a minimum of six months to evaluate their performance in daily airline operations.
This initiative marks the first time RECARO has collaborated with an airline customer to test these specific sustainable features in a live environment, underscoring a growing industry push to reduce the environmental footprint of aircraft interiors.
Sustainable Materials in the Cabin
Upcycled Fishing Nets and Real Wood
The development of these new seating features required a rigorous step-by-step process, including the creation of mock-ups, qualification testing, and final material certification for commercial cabin use. The resulting R1 and R2 seats incorporate two primary sustainable elements: literature pockets made from upcycled fishing nets and real wood inlays.
The literature pockets are manufactured using discarded fishing nets recovered from marine environments. According to RECARO, outfitting a single-aisle aircraft shipset, such as the A320neo, with these pockets removes approximately 2 kilograms of waste material from the oceans. Additionally, the seats feature a real wood-based element integrated into the bumper, replacing traditional synthetic finishes with a natural alternative while maintaining durability.
“With these seats, we were able to combine innovation with ingenious design and sustainability,” said Dr. Mark Hiller, CEO of RECARO Aircraft Seating and RECARO Holding, in the official release. “We are very proud of this step in bringing a more sustainable seating options to the cabin and partnering with Iberia as our trial customer.”
The R Sphere Concept and Industry Recognition
Crystal Cabin Award Nomination
The materials and design philosophies tested in the Iberia trial originate from RECARO’s R Sphere Sustainable Concept Seat. The R Sphere program focuses on reducing the environmental impact of aircraft seating across its entire lifecycle, utilizing recyclable components, bio-based materials, and modular designs that simplify end-of-life disassembly.
The R Sphere concept has been nominated as a finalist in the Sustainable Cabin category for the 2026 Crystal Cabin Awards. The aviation industry will get a closer look at these innovations during the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg this April, with award winners scheduled to be announced on April 14, 2026.
Industry reports from outlets such as APEX and Aerospace Global News note that the broader R Sphere modular seat design can save approximately 1.5 kilograms per passenger compared to conventional models. On a standard single-aisle aircraft, this weight reduction translates to an estimated lowering of carbon emissions by up to 55 tons of CO2 annually.
AirPro News analysis
We view the partnership between RECARO and Iberia as a highly pragmatic approach to sustainability in the commercial aviation sector. By utilizing a six-month trial on a single A320neo, Iberia can gather real-world data on the durability, maintenance requirements, and passenger reception of upcycled materials without the immediate financial risk of a fleet-wide retrofit. Furthermore, integrating materials like reclaimed ocean plastics into highly visible passenger touchpoints, such as literature pockets, serves a dual purpose: it tangibly reduces marine waste and provides airlines with a visible sustainability narrative that passengers can interact with directly during their flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft is being used for the RECARO sustainable seat trial?
The trial is being conducted on a selected Airbus A320neo operated by Iberia.
How long will the trial last?
The seats will be in operational service for a trial period of at least six months.
What sustainable materials are included in the seats?
The RECARO R1 and R2 seats feature literature pockets made from upcycled fishing nets and real wood inlays integrated into the seat bumpers.
Sources
Photo Credit: RECARO Aircraft Seating
Sustainable Aviation
Phelan Green Chooses Honeywell Tech for South African eSAF Facility
Phelan Green invests $2.5B in South Africa to build an electro-sustainable aviation fuel plant using Honeywell’s Fischer Tropsch technology.
This article is based on an official press release from Honeywell.
Phelan Green, operating through its clean fuels subsidiary Phelan eFuels, has officially selected Honeywell’s renewable fuel process technology for a major new electro-sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) facility. The planned production site will be located in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, South Africa, marking a significant step forward for the region’s emerging green energy economy.
According to a company press release, the facility will utilize Honeywell UOP’s Fischer Tropsch (FT) Unicracking process technology. This system is designed to convert FT liquids and waxes derived from carbon dioxide into sustainable aviation fuel that meets rigorous aviation industry standards.
The development represents a major milestone in the global push to decarbonize commercial aviation. By leveraging advanced processing technologies, the project aims to establish South Africa as a competitive export hub for next-generation aviation fuels.
Project Scope and Economic Impact
The new Saldanha Bay facility is a core component of the broader Phelan Green Hydrogen Project. The initiative represents a private investment of R47 billion, which is approximately $2.5 billion USD. The South African government has formally recognized the endeavor as a nationally strategic green industrial development, underscoring its importance to the country’s economic and environmental goals.
Once operational, the site is expected to be among the world’s first commercial-scale eSAF production facilities. The press release notes that the plant will supply more than 140,000 tons of electro-sustainable aviation fuel to markets in the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Construction Timeline and Job Creation
Construction on the Saldanha Bay facility is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The multi-phase development process is projected to support thousands of local jobs, providing a substantial boost to the regional economy in the Western Cape.
Company leadership emphasized the strategic value of the partnership. Paschal Phelan, Chairman of Phelan Green, highlighted the reliability of the chosen technology in the official announcement.
“We selected Honeywell’s Fischer Tropsch Unicracking process technology because it provides a proven, bankable pathway to produce sustainable aviation fuel at scale,” Phelan stated in the press release.
Technological Framework and Industry Transition
The transition to sustainable aviation fuel is highly dependent on scalable and efficient processing technologies. Honeywell’s FT Unicracking system plays a critical role by upgrading synthetic liquids into drop-in aviation fuels that do not require modifications to existing aircraft engines or fueling infrastructure.
Rajesh Gattupalli, president of Honeywell UOP, noted that the company’s technologies are specifically engineered to facilitate the flexible production of low-carbon fuels.
“In this case, our Fischer Tropsch Unicracking process technology will help support Phelan eFuels’ goal to encourage commercial scale sustainable aviation fuel production in South Africa,” Gattupalli said in the company statement.
AirPro News analysis
We view the Phelan Green Hydrogen Project as a critical indicator of how global capital is beginning to flow toward commercial-scale eSAF production. The $2.5 billion investment highlights the growing viability of power-to-liquid technologies, which are essential for producing aviation fuels from captured carbon dioxide and green hydrogen.
Furthermore, targeting the EU and UK markets with the planned 140,000 tons of eSAF aligns with the stringent blending mandates recently introduced in those regions. As European regulations increasingly require airlines to incorporate sustainable fuels, export-oriented facilities in regions with abundant renewable energy potential, such as South Africa, are well-positioned to capitalize on the surging demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eSAF?
Electro-sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) is a type of synthetic fuel produced using renewable electricity, water, and carbon dioxide. It is designed to replace conventional jet fuel while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Where will the new facility be located?
The planned production facility will be built in Saldanha Bay, located in the Western Cape province of South Africa.
When does construction begin?
According to the project timeline, construction of the Saldanha Bay facility is set to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Sources
Photo Credit: Honeywell
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