EVA Air is making waves in the aviation industry by embracing sustainability with the innovative AeroSHARK drag-reducing film. This Taiwanese airline is equipping its fleet of nine Boeing 777 freighters with this groundbreaking technology, taking a significant step towards reducing its environmental footprint.
As the busy summer travel season winds down, EVA Air is strategically implementing these modifications to its fleet, aiming to improve fuel efficiency and significantly decrease carbon emissions. The airline has become the first in Asia to adopt AeroSHARK, a collaboration between Lufthansa Technik (LHT) and BASF, demonstrating a growing commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technologies for environmental sustainability.
The first modified Boeing 777F, registered as L-16786, recently rolled out of EVA Air’s facilities at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), showcasing the AeroSHARK film elegantly applied to its fuselage and engine nacelles. This meticulous modification was expertly executed by Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corporation (EGAT), under the watchful eye of LHT specialists.
Drawing inspiration from the natural properties of shark skin, AeroSHARK technology utilizes microscopic riblets, each measuring approximately 50 micrometers thick. These riblets strategically reduce aerodynamic drag, creating smoother airflow around the aircraft. This leads to improved fuel efficiency, reduced drag, and ultimately, lower emissions.
Covering the fuselage and engine nacelles of a single Boeing 777F requires around 830 square meters of AeroSHARK film. This seemingly modest application results in a remarkable 1% reduction in fuel consumption per flight. For EVA Air’s fleet, this translates into substantial annual savings of over 2,500 metric tons of fuel and a reduction of over 7,800 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
EVA Air’s adoption of AeroSHARK is a testament to the broader industry trend towards minimizing environmental impact. Alongside its nine 777F freighters, the airline operates a diverse fleet encompassing 17 Airbus A321-200s, nine A330-300s, 33 Boeing 777-300ERs, and 16 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Lufthansa Technik currently holds Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for AeroSHARK modifications on specific Boeing 777 models, and a growing number of aircraft are now entering service with this technology. Lufthansa Technik and BASF are actively exploring and expanding the applications of AeroSHARK, working towards securing approvals for additional aircraft types and larger surface areas.
Projections suggest that with maximum coverage, AeroSHARK could achieve an impressive up to 3% reduction in carbon emissions, providing significant advantages for airlines committed to environmental responsibility.
By integrating AeroSHARK into its operations, EVA Air is setting a new benchmark for sustainability in aviation. This initiative demonstrates its commitment to embracing innovative solutions that align with global efforts to build a more sustainable future. It highlights the pivotal role of advanced technology in reducing the environmental impact of air travel and solidifies EVA Air’s position as a leader in the aviation industry’s green movement.
