Fact is despite the cycles and hrs, none of us can compile the data that resulted in this failure. Starting from the last rivits holding the skin, unknown "g" stress from hard/semi hard landings to turbulence (largest unmeasurable factor), the environment over 15 years "hot/cold/wet/dry". Just to speculate that this piece of skin of this aircraft had a poor run of luck based on the factors above is probably in atleast in one way the truth.
Cycles and hrs are not a factor given this type aircraft. Allthough the crown is least inspected and incinedence like this will likely prove for for more detailed inspection.
Human factors, pilots are often on the fence to report a (semi hard landing), this area of the aircraft is not scrutinized by maintenance and difficult to inspect at the gate. These are factors that will change.
Last edited by grounded27; 7th Apr 2011 at 05:20.