Innovative Air Travel Solutions by Airbus

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a group of planes flying like birds? Airplane manufacturer Airbus is actively researching new ways for passenger planes to enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The company has discovered that flights may become more fuel-efficient if they adopt a V-shaped formation, similar to migrating flocks of geese.

Understanding the Fello’fly Concept

The innovative concept, known as fello’fly, involves planes flying closely behind one another. The trailing aircraft can take advantage of the rotating wake of air produced by the wings of the leading plane, thereby reducing drag through a technique referred to as ‘vortex surfing’. While scientists have recognized this phenomenon in migratory birds for decades, its application to man-made planes is a relatively new frontier.

Military Insights for Civil Aviation

Although aerial formations are already utilized during military operations, there are significant hurdles for this concept to be adopted by passenger jets. Approval from air traffic controllers will be essential, and flight routes may need reconfiguration to allow different planes to synchronize their paths effectively.

The Need for Pollution Reduction

Greenhouse gas emissions from commercial aircraft are nearing one billion metric tons annually, accounting for approximately 2.5% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Consequently, reducing pollution has become a critical priority for airlines worldwide.

Sustainable Travel Movements

In light of environmental concerns, some travelers are opting to forgo flying altogether. This movement, termed flygskam—Swedish for ‘flight shame’—reflects a growing awareness of the carbon footprint associated with air travel. Notably, climate activist Greta Thunberg is credited with popularizing this movement, especially after her journey across the Atlantic for the Climate Action Summit in New York.