Airline Tests Laser-microfabricated Friction-reducing Film

Nikon Corp. is providing Japan’s largest airline with a film treated by riblet processing — a processing that forms structures that emulate shark skin on surfaces in contact with fluid. The laser microfabricated film reduces the friction drag caused by an irregular flow of fluid or gas and improves energy efficiency.

Nikon’s proprietary film treated by riblet processing reduces fluid resistance and improves fuel efficiency by up to 2%. The film was attached to two ANA Green Jet aircraft, operated by All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd. (ANA).

Laser microfabricated riblet film reduces fluid resistance and improves fuel efficiency by up to 2%. The film was administered, on a trial basis, to two ANA Green Jet planes. Courtesy of Nikon Corp.

Nikon is planning to test the durability of surfaces covered with the film and obtain related data through the operation and technical validation of the aircraft with the riblet film, so as to advance the technological development leading to practical applications.

The airline will operate the aircraft with the riblet film attached on a trial basis. The coated aircraft have been in operation since October.

Nikon’s film treated by riblet processing contributes to improved fuel efficiency in aircraft. Courtesy of Nikon Corp.

ANA is the first Japanese airline to operate aircraft with the riblet film attached to the surface of the airframe on a trial basis. Earlier this year, SWISS equipped its Boeing long-haul fleet with riblet films, to reportedly become the first passenger airline worldwide to use the surface technology to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions of one of its existing fleets.