SWISS Completes Shark Skin Technology Rollout Across Boeing 777 Fleet

SWISS has successfully equipped its entire Boeing 777-300ER fleet with innovative AeroSHARK technology, saving over 2,000 tonnes of kerosene in the past year alone. This advancement marks a significant step towards more sustainable flight operations for the Swiss national airline.

The 12-strong fleet now features the AeroSHARK film, which replicates the hydrodynamic properties of shark skin, across all fuselages and engine nacelles. The final aircraft to receive the technology, registered HB-JNF, completed its transformation in Hong Kong at the beginning of May.

Claus Bauer, Head of Technical Fleet Management at SWISS, expressed pride in this achievement, highlighting that SWISS is the first airline globally to outfit an entire fleet with this technology. He emphasized the precise workmanship required for each application, which takes about a week per aircraft.

AeroSHARK technology, developed by Lufthansa Technik and BASF, uses a special film with 50-micrometre riblets to reduce aerodynamic drag during flight. This technology not only enhances fuel efficiency but also supports SWISS's commitment to sustainability. CEO Dieter Vranckx noted that the fleet's advanced, carbon-efficient credentials are further bolstered by AeroSHARK, reinforcing SWISS's position as a leader in eco-friendly aviation.

Supported by the Swiss Confederation, this project aims to expand the application of AeroSHARK across other parts of SWISS's fleet. The airline is currently evaluating the potential installation of the technology on its A330s and A340s, with future considerations for its incoming Airbus A350s, set to arrive in 2025.

SWISS's commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions in aviation continues to set industry standards. As the airline plans further retrofits and new deliveries, the integration of AeroSHARK technology demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to reducing environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.