Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) has become the first airline in the world to operate both passenger and cargo Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with AeroSHARK, a fuel-saving riblet film developed by Lufthansa Technik and BASF.
ANA has started commercial operations with a Boeing 777-300ER (registration JA796A) outfitted with the innovative AeroSHARK film, marking the first deployment of the technology on a passenger aircraft in Asia.
ANA has already been operating a Boeing 777 Freighter (JA771F) with the riblet technology since September 2024.
AeroSHARK, inspired by the texture of shark skin, reduces aerodynamic drag, leading to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions – an improvement ANA has verified since the technology’s initial introduction. Tests have confirmed efficiency gains of approximately 1%.
To highlight the environmental innovation, ANA has added promotional decals near the aircraft doors and installed sample panels onboard so passengers can physically experience the riblet surface.
The airline plans to expand AeroSHARK modifications to additional Boeing 777 aircraft as part of its medium- to long-term environmental strategy. This effort supports ANA’s broader “ANA Future Promise” sustainability initiative, which promotes actions toward realising a more sustainable society.
Lufthansa Technik currently holds Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for various Boeing 777 models. Around 28 long-haul aircraft are already operating with AeroSHARK globally, with adoption continuing to grow.
Kohei Tsuji, executive vice president of engineering and maintenance centre at ANA, said: “The implementation of the AeroSHARK technology on more ANA aircraft represents our ongoing commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and improve operational efficiency. This innovative technology is building a more sustainable future for ANA and the aviation industry.”
Joern Dahmen, senior director special engineering services at Lufthansa Technik, said: “ANA’s implementation of AeroSHARK on both freighter and passenger aircraft highlights the potential of retrofitting existing fleets to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. We are proud to support ANA in their efforts to enhance operational efficiency and contribute to more sustainable aviation.”
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