Fedex formation flying

[F737MAX 5,604]

Lonely no more, have a wingman with you on that Memphis to Paris leg.

Looks like only ex-military pilots need apply for Fedex flying jobs if this idea takes off.

Quote

Boeing says formation flight tests conducted with FedEx Express using two 777F freighters confirm the potential for reducing fuel consumption by up to 10% by flying in the wingtip vortex of the lead aircraft.

https://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/boeing-fedex-777f-tests-confirm-wake-fuel-burn-benefit

[HighBypass 2,339]

So... drafting (slipstreaming) in the air is a thing now? Cool!  Race cars have been doing it for years though..

It could be somewhat fatiguing on the trailing crew though.. (I'm not signing up even a free account just to read the full article).

 

[Mace 1,926]

I wonder how safe that is.  I couldn't read the entire article, so maybe that is explained.

[ChrisDa 41]

Migratory birds have been doing this for thousands of years.

Guess we are slow learners.  😉

[KevinAu 441]

The crew doesn’t have to hand fly the formation. The autopilot would be able to do it. Drones have already demonstrated formation flying and inflight refueling.

[HighBypass 2,339]

13 hours ago, KevinAu said:

The crew doesn’t have to hand fly the formation......

Shh! Don't tell the Red Arrows...  (other aerobatic teams are available, but I'm English).