A major step toward more fuel-efficient aircraft was achieved as NASA successfully flew a laminar-flow wing model designed to reduce aerodynamic drag.
The 40-inch CATNLF wing model was mounted on an F-15B aircraft at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in late January 2026. The test marked the first in-flight demonstration of the design, which aims to improve future aircraft efficiency.
Before the flight, the wing underwent a ground taxi test on January 12, reaching speeds of about 144 mph. The successful run confirmed the model was ready for airborne testing.
On January 29, 2026, the F-15B carried the 40-inch (3-foot) CATNLF wing during a 75-minute flight. Pilots performed controlled turns and gentle climbs to ensure the new wing did not affect the aircraft’s handling. Michelle Banchy, research principal investigator for CATNLF, said it was “incredible to see CATNLF fly” after extensive preparation. NASA stated that this was the first of up to 15 planned test flights under the program.
Laminar flow refers to the smooth movement of air over a wing surface. Maintaining this smooth flow reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency. Earlier NASA research in 2014 and 2017 showed that integrating CATNLF features into the wings of large commercial aircraft could lower fuel consumption by up to 10%.
Tests conducted at Langley Research Center confirmed that the design can preserve laminar flow even on swept wings, which are common in commercial jets. The CATNLF concept was developed by NASA aeronautical researchers to support next-generation aircraft performance.
Mike Frederick, who led the research effort, said even small efficiency gains can result in significant long-term benefits for the aviation industry. The successful flight test brings laminar-flow wing technology closer to real-world application in future aircraft.
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