Riblets in aeronautics –
the sky is the limit
Task
Unfold the full potential of Riblets by identifying alternative areas on aircrafts suitable for applying Riblets.
Solution
Change of Riblet application area to reduce drag and improve lift.
Benefit
Fuel savings and thus cost cutting.

Boeing 777-300
Project details
1.2 tons of carbon dioxide and 400 tons of jet fuel per long-range aircraft – that’s SWISS`s annual cut down on CO2 emissions and fuel and a promising start! However, taking advantage of Riblet films in aeronautics offers a huge potential as there is still air to the top. Within the last few years, the usage of Riblets on the fuselage has established itself as state-of-the-art. Several carriers trust in Riblets to cut down costs for cargo flights. Swiss is the first passenger airline in the world to utilize the innovative Riblets technology on its long-haul flights to enhance the Boeing 777-300’s aerodynamics to further reduce the carbon dioxide emissions and the fuel consumption. The usage of a Riblet foils cut SWISS’ annual fuel consumption substantially. Boosting Riblets in aeronautics to unfold the full potential of this technology is key to drive forward innovation as today cutting costs and minimizing Co2 consumption are the order of the day in every field and even more in the high-competitive sector of aeronautics.
