International Airlines Group (IAG)’s venture arm, IAGi, have invested in MAKO, a company producing ‘shark skin’ drag reduction coatings for aircraft.
Called Flightfilm, MAKO’s adhesive coating is covered in microscopic riblets that mimic the natural pattern of shark skin. This allows air to flow more smoothly over an aircraft, reducing drag and with it fuel burn.
MAKO say Flightfilm reduces drag by up to 4%, which would save 100,000 gallons of fuel and US$300,000 a year when operating an Airbus A350. IAGi contributed to a Series A US$20 million funding round that will support the Australian company as they scale manufacture.
MAKO CEO Henry Bilinsky said:
We’re flight-proven, manufacturing-ready, and have commercial and defence customers lined up. This funding accelerates MAKO’s mission as we complete certification, deliver to those customers, and scale production for the global aviation fleet.
The company previously trialled the technology with IAG member Vueling in May 2025. Another partnership with Delta Air Lines is ongoing. MAKO say the film will be certified for use on A350s by the end of the year.
IAG’s decision to invest in technology comes as the industry grapples with higher fuel costs, which are around 30% higher than this time last year due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Additionally, finding further solutions to reduce drag is essential for aviation’s sustainability targets and ‘Jet Zero’ initiatives.
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