Airbus Successfully Completes Wake Energy Recovery Trials
Airbus, in collaboration with various airlines and operational partners, has concluded a new phase of trials for the fello'fly project, aimed at reducing fuel consumption.
Project Details and Trial Flights
According to the press release, Airbus conducted trials on eight flights over the North Atlantic from September to October 2025, as part of the GEESE project funded by the SESAR Digital European Sky program. The fello'fly project, inspired by the flight patterns of migratory geese, aims to reduce fuel consumption by utilizing a paired flight technique. Once operational, this method could enable fuel savings of up to 5% on long-haul flights.
Collaboration and Coordination
The company reports that these trials required close coordination between the operational control centers of the involved airlines, as well as four air traffic control centers and two flight crews. The active participation of AirNav Ireland, Air France, Delta Air Lines, DSNA, EUROCONTROL, French bee, NATS, and Virgin Atlantic was crucial in demonstrating the safety and feasibility of the concept under real conditions.
Future Prospects and Ongoing Development
According to the group, although commercial flights have not yet tested the wake energy recovery system, the successful trials of the rendezvous process represent a critical first step towards future efficiency gains. The development of the fello'fly project continues with contributions from partners such as Bulatsa, Indra, ENAC, CIRA, Boeing, Frequentis, UAB, Oro Navigacija, DLR, UCLouvain, and WaPT.
