4 ms·

I am not aware that the aiframe is the main reason why planes are taken out of service. Fuel inefficiency is typically the primary reason, plus increased mainte

• mlyle 3y ago
  > I am not aware that the aiframe is the main reason why planes are taken out of service This is true--- these days. We've been tending to replace planes before the airframe life limits are met. > I can't remember an accident of a major airliner as a result of the airframe failing post the 1970s. Well, on the other hand, this is mostly true because airframe life limits and expensive inspection programs that we established after horrific accidents. And things like https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloha_Airlines_Flight_243 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloha_Airlines_Flight_243 (1988). > Will be interesting to look at fatigue of the control surfaces though, if they get used many times more per flight to adjust for minor turbulences. Control surfaces are on bearings and have, in general, a lot of excess strength to minimize internal deflection. Even if there were a trade in wearing out control surfaces faster, they are a more easily inspected and replaced part of the airplane.
  • cm2187 3y ago
    On the control surface, I mean less the surface itself than the mechanism behind, i.e. the moving parts.