Background

The cost of fuel is, by far, the most significant expenditure when considering total aircraft operating costs. As the price of fuel increases, the percentage of the total cost that it represents increases as well. Operators from all aviation sectors, inclusive of airline, corporate and general aviation, are constantly demanding improved fuel efficiency and aircraft manufacturers and associciated industry are responding with improved designs and new products. Among these products are various surface coatings developed with the intent of reducing aircraft aerodynamic drag.

Drag

In aerodynamics, drag refers to forces that oppose the relative motion of an object through the air. In an aircraft, drag is overcome by thrust. To provide thrust, aircraft engines burn fuel. If drag is reduced, the thrust required to overcome it will be proportionally reduced and the required fuel burn will decrease.