When repairing a small hole in a metal stressed skin, what is the major consideration?

Focusing on the shear strength of the riveted joint is crucial when repairing a small hole in a metal stressed skin because the integrity of the aircraft's structure depends on the joint's ability to withstand forces during operation. The riveted joint must ensure that the patched area effectively transfers loads across the repair, preventing any potential failure.

In this context, shear strength is vital because the loads acting on the aircraft can create shear forces that may compromise the repair if not adequately addressed. Ensuring that the riveted joint maintains or exceeds the original shear strength will help to reinforce the area and keep the aircraft structurally sound.

While other factors such as the cost of materials, aesthetic appearance, and the size of the hole may be relevant in the overall repair process, they do not compare with the priority of ensuring that the joint can handle operational stresses effectively. The primary goal of any structural repair in aircraft is to maintain safety and performance, which directly relates to the strength of the riveted joint in this scenario.