Innovative Advancement in Flight Fuel Efficiency: Biomimetic Film Aids Carbon Reduction
AeroSHARK is a biomimetic film jointly developed by Lufthansa Technik and German chemical industry leader BASF. When applied to the exterior surface of cargo aircraft, this film optimizes airflow, reduces drag, and enhances flight performance, thereby contributing to fuel savings and carbon emission reduction. EVA Air is the first airline in Asia to adopt this technology. Inspired by the microscopic riblet structure of shark skin, AeroSHARK features self-cleaning properties and features low adhesion and drag reduction capabilities, effectively improving the aerodynamic efficiency of the treated aircraft surfaces. Additionally, the material is highly durable, capable of withstanding extreme temperature fluctuations, pressure differentials, and high-altitude ultraviolet radiation. Its transparency ensures no visual alteration to the aircraft's appearance, while achieving approximately 1% fuel consumption reduction.
In pursuit of the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, EVA Air is actively seeking innovative approaches to minimize its carbon footprint. Currently, AeroSHARK is being trialed on a 777F cargo aircraft to enhance fuel efficiency, with plans to extend this technology across the entire 777F fleet. Based on the operational data from EVA Air’s nine 777F cargo aircraft, it is estimated that the application of AeroSHARK could save at least 2,500 tons of aviation fuel annually and reduce carbon emissions by over 7,800 tons
Promoting sustainability and cultivating talent
EVA Air places great importance on promoting sustainability and developing sustainable talent. At the 2024 SDG Asia exhibition, EVA Air was the sole airline exhibitor, showcasing its flight fuel efficiency strategies and eco-friendly in-flight amenities to convey the company’s sustainability vision and net-zero action plan. In addition to multimedia presentations highlighting our ESG initiatives, we also provided static displays introducing the aviation industry's net-zero carbon emission targets, sustainable aviation fuels, and detailed information on fuel consumption per seat and flight distance across various aircraft models. We also demonstrated in-flight amenities such as wheat straw toothbrushes, label-free Evian mineral water, and blankets made from recycled plastic bottles, to help members of the public have fun while learning how much work EVA Air has devoted to environmental protection.
