SunExpress, the Turkish-German airline jointly owned by Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, has announced plans to install fuel-saving VCT Finlets across its entire Next Generation Boeing 737-800 fleet, following a successful evaluation of the aerodynamic technology.
Developed by Vortex Control Technologies (VCT), the patented Finlets are a series of small aerodynamic fins mounted on the aft fuselage of the aircraft.
The modification is designed to optimise airflow, reducing drag and thereby improving fuel efficiency, range, and climb performance, while also enhancing overall aircraft endurance.
The airline launched phase one of the initiative in May 2024, trialling the Finlets on five aircraft in active service.
With results exceeding expectations, SunExpress has now committed to phase two, which will see the technology installed on over 40 additional aircraft in the coming years.
Cemil Sayar, chief operations officer of SunExpress said: “At SunExpress, we continuously seek innovative ways to enhance our fuel efficiency and reduce our environmental impact.
“Following a successful year-long in-service evaluation of VCT Finlets on select aircraft, we are now equipping our entire 737-800 fleet with this proven technology.
“This initiative not only supports our carbon reduction goals but also reinforces our commitment to responsible and efficient operations.”
Gil Morgan, CEO of VCT said: “The certification of Finlets on the 737-700, 800, and 900ER is the result of more than a decade of research and testing.
“Working with a forward-thinking partner like SunExpress is key to accelerating aviation’s transition to greater environmental and economic sustainability.”
