Australian aerospace startup Mako has raised $28 million in a Series A funding round to accelerate the certification and manufacturing of its Flightfilm product, which mimics sharkskin to reduce aircraft drag and fuel consumption by up to 4%.
- Raised $28M Series A led by Virescent Ventures with airline and venture firm support
- Drag reduction technology reduces fuel burn by ~4%, cuts emissions
- Flightfilm undergoing certification for global commercial and defense markets
What happened
Sydney startup Mako closed a $28 million Series A round to further develop and commercialize its Flightfilm technology, which reduces drag on aircraft surfaces by replicating the texture of sharkskin. This innovative technology has demonstrated the potential to reduce fuel consumption by roughly 4%, representing significant cost savings and carbon emissions reductions for airlines.
Why it matters
Rising global fuel costs and increasing regulatory pressure to reduce carbon emissions are major challenges for the aviation sector. Mako's Flightfilm technology offers a timely solution by enhancing aerodynamic efficiency, thereby lowering fuel usage and operational costs. This efficiency gain could provide airlines with a competitive advantage while supporting sustainability initiatives.
Backing from major industry players including Delta Air Lines and IAG’s Vueling subsidiary validates the commercial viability of Mako's innovation. Moreover, proven performance on platforms like the US Air Force C-130J Super Hercules indicates strong applicability across both commercial and defense aviation sectors. This positions Mako as a key player in advancing more sustainable flight operations worldwide.
What to watch next
Mako will focus on completing the certification processes across multiple jurisdictions, which is critical for widespread adoption of Flightfilm. The company also plans to expand manufacturing capabilities to meet incoming orders from commercial airlines and defense clients as adoption grows.
Airline trials in the Asia-Pacific region, scheduled for later this year alongside pilots with IAG’s Vueling, will offer further insights into Flightfilm's operational impact. Stakeholders should watch for regulatory decisions, commercial partnerships expansion, and production milestones that will shape Mako’s role in the global aerospace efficiency market.