Japan Airlines to Launch 'Sharkskin' Aircraft

TOKYO, Jan 13 (News On Japan) - Japan Airlines has unveiled an aircraft featuring a sharkskin-like coating. By reducing air resistance with this special surface texture, the airline expects to cut fuel consumption by approximately 119 tons per aircraft annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 381 tons.

This technology is being developed in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and other partners. Starting in mid-January, one aircraft equipped with the coating will begin operating on mid- and long-haul international routes to Europe. If the results prove effective, the company plans to expand its use to other aircraft. This marks the world's first launch of a sharkskin-coated aircraft on international routes.

Source: テレ東BIZ

Osaka Expands Indoor Smoking Ban

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

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MORE Sci-Tech NEWS

Rocket and Space Museum Opens in Kushimoto, Wakayama

A museum dedicated to rockets and space has opened in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, home to Japan's first private rocket launch site.

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Japan Unveils Four-Stage Evacuation Plan for Mount Fuji Eruption

The Japanese government on March 21st released a report outlining countermeasures for volcanic ash in the event of a Mount Fuji eruption, including a four-stage evacuation plan based on ashfall volume.

Japan Advances iPS Cell Technology with New Osaka Facility

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First Commercial Reactor Dismantling Begins at Hamaoka

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