Static tests - when do you need to repeat them?
Folks,
With the static test approaching for the A380, I was wondering what the rules are regarding testing of different versions?
For example, once the A380 enters service, Airbus will probably try to engineer weight out of the structure, to enhance range, payload etc.
If they change some wing design detail, will the wing have to be retested?
Do Boeing have to retest the 777 wing with the changes introduced for the 772LR and 773ER?
Or for the A345/346, with a significantly bigger wing than the A343, did this structure have to go through a full destructive test?
Seems a rather expensive test, snapping a set of perfectly good wings! I'm sure the manufacturers don't like to overdo it!