A330 to gain shark skin inspired film as certification nears

Lufthansa Technik has entered the final phase of certification for its AeroSHARK film on the Airbus A330-200 and A330-300. Inspired by shark skin, the film reduces drag, which lowers fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The company said an A330 operated by Discover Airlines will be the first Airbus aircraft worldwide fitted with the technology. The widebody will undergo several weeks of test flights as Lufthansa Technik works toward a Supplemental Type Certificate from the European Aviation Safety Agency.

AeroSHARK was developed by Lufthansa Technik with Surventis, formerly BASF Coatings. It is already certified for the Boeing 777 family, and 22 aircraft have been fitted with the film so far.

Lufthansa Technik estimates around 1,000 A330-200 and -300 aircraft are in service worldwide. The company described the potential for operational cost savings and environmental benefits as vast. It has partnered with Mastercard for the current project phase.