Vueling, an airline under the IAG group, is taking a leap into the future of sustainable aviation by teaming up with Australian aerospace tech firm MicroTau to introduce innovative shark skin technology aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The exciting partnership, announced on May 23, 2025, marks a significant milestone as Vueling becomes the first European airline to test MicroTau's revolutionary Riblet Modification Package on its aircraft.

The Riblet Modification Package comprises a state-of-the-art film that emulates the microscopic texture of shark skin, a design element that has been proven to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. By applying this film to the exterior of their planes, Vueling aims to improve performance and potentially cut carbon emissions by up to 4%. The inspiration behind this technology lies in the grooved texture of a shark's skin, which helps reduce drag as the creature navigates through water. By translating this natural mechanism to aircraft surfaces, Vueling can enhance operational efficiency without requiring structural alterations.

Franc Sanmartí, Vueling's Director of Sustainability, expressed enthusiasm about integrating MicroTau's advanced technology into their fleet once certified. He emphasized that this initiative signifies a pivotal step in Vueling's sustainability journey, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions through innovative solutions.

MicroTau's partnership with Vueling is part of a broader strategy to introduce their Riblet Modification Package across different airline fleets. Delta Air Lines, for instance, has also joined forces with MicroTau to trial the shark skin product on their Boeing 767 aircraft, while Boom Supersonic's XB-1 technology demonstrator has undergone testing as well. CEO Henry Bilinsky highlighted the urgency of operational efficiency in the aviation sector and underscored MicroTau's dedication to providing cost-effective solutions for emissions reduction, with Vueling playing a crucial role in realizing this vision as a key customer and partner.

As airlines strive to embrace sustainable practices, collaborations like the one between Vueling and MicroTau represent significant progress towards greener aviation. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies inspired by nature, the industry is poised to revolutionize air travel and reduce its environmental footprint for future generations.