Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

easyJet trials nanotech coating

Sarah Arnott
Monday 14 February 2011 01:00 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Budget airline easyJet is starting a trial of US military nanotechnology, aimed at

improving the fuel efficiency of

its passenger aircraft.

Eight easyJet planes will be given an ultra-thin polymer coating that bonds to the paint on the outside of the aircraft and minimises drag by reducing the accumulation of dirt and debris on the surface.

The technology will add only four ounces in weight, the company says, and could cut jets' fuel usage by as much as 2 per cent, compared with untreated counterparts.

The trial planes' fuel consumption will be compared with the rest of the fleet over 12 months.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in