5 things geese can teach us about teamwork & fuel economy

According to available data, the aviation industry is currently investing around $15 billion per year in research and development for aviation fuel, with a significant focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives, with some countries like the UK dedicating hundreds of millions to support SAF projects and mandates for increasing SAF usage by airlines. 

Key points about aviation fuel research investment:

• Industry-wide spending:

  The overall aviation industry spends approximately $15 billion annually on R&D, including efforts to develop alternative fuels. 

• SAF focus:

  Most of the recent research investment is directed towards developing and scaling up sustainable aviation fuel production. 

• Government support:

  Several governments are actively funding SAF development through grants and mandates, with the UK committing around £180 million to support SAF projects. 

• Projected costs:

  Estimates suggest that achieving net-zero carbon emissions in aviation could require up to $1.45 trillion in capital expenditure over 30 years for SAF production facilities. 

Net Zero goals aside, Aircraft manufacturers are constantly looking at ways to improve fuel efficiency in aviation, and the way geese fly in formation is one area of research. Here's how:

How Geese Fly

• V-Formation: Geese fly in a V-shaped formation, which helps reduce air resistance for the birds flying behind the leader. This allows them to conserve energy and fly longer distances.

• Wingtip Vortices: Each bird creates small swirls of air called wingtip vortices. By flying in formation, the following birds can position themselves to take advantage of these updrafts, reducing the effort needed to stay aloft.

How Aircraft Manufacturers are Applying This

• Winglet Design: Aircraft manufacturers are incorporating winglets at the tips of aircraft wings. These winglets help to reduce wingtip vortices and improve fuel efficiency, similar to how geese benefit from flying in formation.

• Formation Flight: Researchers are exploring the possibility of aircraft flying in close formation, similar to geese. This could potentially lead to significant fuel savings on long-haul flights. However, there are significant challenges to overcome, including safety and air traffic control issues.

Who is Investing in This Research

• Aircraft Manufacturers: Companies like Airbus and Boeing are investing in research to improve fuel efficiency, including exploring biomimicry (imitating natural systems like geese).

• Government Agencies: Organizations like NASA and the FAA are funding research into more efficient aircraft designs and air traffic management systems.

• Universities: Many universities are conducting research on aerodynamics, formation flight, and other areas that could lead to improved fuel efficiency in aviation.

Additional Considerations

• Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF): In addition to biomimicry, the aviation industry is also investing heavily in the development and use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) made from renewable sources.

• Electric and Hybrid Aircraft: Electric and hybrid aircraft are also being developed, particularly for short-haul flights, which could further reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Overall, the aviation industry is committed to improving fuel efficiency and reducing its environmental impact. Biomimicry, including studying how geese fly, is one area of research that could potentially lead to significant advancements in this area.