Lufthansa Technik begins AeroSHARK certification process for first Airbus model
Lufthansa Technik has begun the AeroSHARK certification process for the first Airbus model after already achieving approval to upgrade Boeing 777-300ER, 777-200ER and 777F aircraft with the advanced film.
The company confirmed on August 12, 2025, that it was aiming to achieve certification for the A330ceo, through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), enabling series modification to the A330-200s and A330-300s.
“The choice of the A330ceo as the next candidate for AeroSHARK certification is strategic, given the type’s widespread use and significant leverage on global fuel consumption and emissions. With about 1,000 A330-200 and -300 aircraft in service worldwide, the potential for operational cost savings and substantial environmental benefits is vast,” stated Andrew Muirhead, Vice President Original Equipment Innovation at Lufthansa Technik.
Developed in partnership with BASF Coatings, the AeroSHARK film is designed to reduce drag and fuel consumption, making long-haul aircraft prime candidates for such modifications.
So far, AeroSHARK modifications have been successfully applied to 28 Boeing 777 aircraft of several airlines and one Lufthansa Boeing 747.
Lufthansa Tecknik“The sharkskin technology represents a significant step forward in the efforts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in commercial aviation. With the certification for the A330ceo, it will soon be possible to extend these benefits to a wider number of aircraft and to further contribute to more sustainable aviation practices,” said Frank Naber, Senior Vice President Global Surface Treatment at BASF Coatings.
As with any aircraft modifications, approval must be obtained from aviation authorities following detailed analyses and test campaigns. Lufthansa Technik expects the process for the A330 to be completed in 2026.
According to the company, AeroSHARK achieves a reduction of about 1% in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
“Lufthansa Technik and BASF Coatings have successfully applied this principle for the harsh conditions of daily airline operations, making AeroSHARK the only certified solution for commercial aviation by now,” a spokesperson for Lufthansa Technik said.
Among the airlines with aircraft fitted with AeroSHARK film are Austrian Airlines, ANA and LATAM.
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The post Lufthansa Technik begins AeroSHARK certification process for first Airbus model appeared first on AeroTime.
Lufthansa Technik has begun the AeroSHARK certification process for the first Airbus model after already achieving approval to…
The post Lufthansa Technik begins AeroSHARK certification process for first Airbus model appeared first on AeroTime.
