Composites need fewer inspections and repairs?
 

Hi all,

"The use of carbon-fibre composites in B777 and many Airbus aircraft has led to light designs, thereby increasing payload and range of these aircraft. Because of the fatigue- and corrosion-resistant properties of the advanced composites, these aircraft have needed few inspections and repairs."

Just how valid is the last sentence in reality??

Any comments would be appreciated.

While routine inspections and corrective repairs may be reduced, it has been found that in the case of military aircraft a composite airplane cannot be "rebuilt" for an extended service life as an aluminum aircraft can. I suppose we'll see what the future brings for aging composite commercial airplanes...