Photo: Austrian Airlines The first Boeing 777-200ER of Austrian Airlines equipped with the innovative AeroSHARK surface technology successfully completed its maiden flight. The long-range aircraft took off last night from Bangkok International Airport on a flight to Vienna, following the recent approval by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the AeroSHARK coating on the Boeing 777-200ER.
Four out of the six Boeing 777-200ER aircraft operated by Austrian Airlines are expected to be equipped with the technology by next March.
AeroSHARK, a technology developed jointly by Lufthansa Technik and BASF, mimics the microscopic structure of shark skin to optimize airflow over the aircraft's body and engine nacelle. The technology allows for about one percent fuel saving, which translates to a reduction in CO₂ emissions. For Austrian Airlines, this innovation aligns with its commitment to continuously reduce its CO₂ emissions.
Austrian Airlines is the first airline to apply this technology to Boeing 777-200ER aircraft. For this, Lufthansa Technik obtained extended certification from EASA for this additional aircraft type.
"With this certification, we can begin the comprehensive implementation of our AeroSHARK technology on 777-200ER aircraft, supporting airlines worldwide in enhancing operational efficiency and achieving their environmental goals," says Harald Gloy, Chief Operations Officer of Lufthansa Technik.
Austrian Airlines estimates that the four Boeing 777-200ER aircraft to be equipped with the technology will lead to a reduction of approximately 2,650 tons of fuel by 2028.
This milestone builds on the successful deployment of AeroSHARK in other fleets of the Lufthansa Group and beyond. The technology has already proven its value in passenger and cargo operations, with 22 modified Boeing 777 aircraft from six different airlines now flying. Lufthansa Technik and BASF are committed to expanding the application to additional aircraft types and larger coating areas.