The reason behind American Airlines distinctive, polished aluminum skin is not just cosmetic; it's financial. For example, not only do they save money by not using extra paint, American Airlines saves about $400,000 a year in fuel costs in it's 260 plus MD-80 fleet as well.Robb

Are you sure that the $400,000 is not "per plane" as that is not much for a fleet of aircraf?Terry

I'm not sure I understand why no paint means less fuel costs?

It is for their fleet MD80s. That's still a lot of money and a good idea.

It has to do with the extra weight of the paint.Robb

That (hundreds of kgs of paint on a 747), plus those planes got some extra polishing - enough to force structural recalculations for at least the Fokker-100s in their fleet.... Not sure whether that makes a substantial weight loss but it makes you think ;-)Vince

Boeing has a note on this on their website. It actually is not a good idea as the paint helps prevent corrosion on the airplane, reducing maintenance costs in excess of the gasoline savings.