Originally Posted by
barit1
I take it as given this exercise is more than just a repair/return to service to ET-AOP.
It is also Boeing's experiment in major structural repair of composites. As such, the first objective may see some overkill.
Experiment is probably the incorrect term, they will have had many 'experiments' before going with the composites. It would be correct to call this a "
demonstration of a major structural repair of composites." the prime objective will be to get it right.
From an industry point of view everyone will be interested - it is not a Boeing only problem, A-350's will be in the same boat. An effective repair and back to flight will quieten the noise from the peanut gallery about composites. Already, thanks to the prolonged flame throwing ELT strapped right against the composite hull, it is apparent that composites will not irretrievably combust.
This mishap although unwelcome could in the longer term become a positive.