Lufthansa Technik has started certification work to bring its AeroSHARK riblet film to the Airbus A330ceo, expanding the sharkskin-inspired drag-reduction program beyond Boeing 777 aircraft. The company is seeking a Supplemental Type Certificate for the A330-200 and A330-300, with completion targeted for 2026.
AeroSHARK uses riblets, or tiny surface grooves, to reduce aerodynamic drag on the fuselage and engine nacelles. Lufthansa Technik says the technology can cut fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by around 1% in cruise flight. The film is already certified for Boeing 777-200ER, 777-300ER and 777F aircraft, and has been installed on several operators’ fleets, including Austrian Airlines, ANA and LATAM.
The A330 program follows earlier deployments on long-haul aircraft where the modification has been used to improve fuel efficiency. Lufthansa Technik says the system is designed for heavy-duty airline operations and is intended for installation through approved maintenance and modification channels.