SA planes may fly in 'flocks'

SA planes may fly in 'flocks': Fin24: Economy: South Africa
http://www.fin24.com/Economy/South-Africa/SA-planes-may-fly-in-flocks-20101123

Cape Town - Long-distance passenger aircraft between South Africa and Europe might soon fly in V-formation, like birds, to save fuel.

If this idea becomes a reality it will be based on research by two engineering students at the University of Cape Town (UCT), with funding from aircraft manufacturer Airbus and the Department of Trade & Industry’s national aviation centre.

Studies have shown that flying in formation could save aircraft up to 20% of their fuel consumption. Research on formation flying in turbulent conditions, however, is required – especially the effect of turbulence on passenger comfort in the aircraft behind the first one.