What is one of the primary causes of structural failures in aircraft?

One of the primary causes of structural failures in aircraft is poor maintenance practices. Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring that an aircraft's structural integrity is upheld over time. Maintenance practices include regular inspections, repairs, and compliance with service bulletins and directives. When maintenance is neglected or improperly conducted, it can lead to undetected wear and tear, corrosion, or other structural issues that may compromise the aircraft's safety and performance.

Although excessive weight loading, design flaws, and environmental factors can also contribute to structural failures, maintenance is the ongoing process that directly affects the aircraft's condition throughout its operational life. Regular maintenance checks are designed to catch and address potential problems before they lead to significant failures, so adhering to proper maintenance protocols is vital for the longevity and safety of the aircraft structure.