What is a common failure mode in aircraft structures?

Fatigue is a common failure mode in aircraft structures due to the various cyclic loading that the airframe experiences during operation, such as take-offs, landings, and turbulence. Over time, these repeated stress cycles can lead to the development of microscopic cracks in the material. As the aircraft continues to operate, these cracks can propagate and eventually lead to structural failure if not detected and addressed.

Buckling, while a relevant consideration in certain structural components, primarily occurs in slender elements or thin-walled sections when subjected to compressive forces. In the context of aircraft structures, elements like columns and airframe members can buckle under specific conditions, such as excessive loads or instability, making buckling a critical failure mode to understand. Therefore, it's essential to monitor and design to mitigate the risk of buckling in aircraft to ensure safety and structural integrity.