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Supporting an aircraft during structural repair

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 7 of 20 on Metallic Structures. ACS element AM.II.A.R1 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhy must an aircraft be adequately supported while a structural repair is being made?

  1. ATo reduce the number of fasteners needed
  2. BTo prevent further distortion or damage
  3. CTo keep the repair area free of moisture
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. To prevent further distortion or damage

  • A — incorrect Fastener count is determined by the rivet formula and the manufacturer's data, not by how the aircraft is held up.
  • B — correct The handbook requires adequate support during repair specifically to prevent further distortion or damage to the structure.
  • C — incorrect Moisture control is handled through corrosion treatment and protective coatings, not through the method of supporting the aircraft.

BACKGROUND

During repair, the aircraft must be adequately supported to prevent further distortion or damage, and the structure adjacent to the repair must also be supported when it is subject to static loads. For work such as removing control surfaces, wing panels, or stabilizers, the aircraft can be supported adequately by the landing gear or by jacks, and cradles must be prepared to hold the removed components. When the work involves extensive repair of the fuselage, landing gear, or wing center section, a jig, meaning a device for holding parts in position to maintain their shape, may be built to distribute the loads while the repair is carried out. The applicable aircraft maintenance manual should always be checked for specific support requirements. Support planning belongs to the same stage as assessing the extent of damage, which must be fully evaluated before any repair begins.

STUDY TIP

Think of support as part of the repair itself. Whenever a question mentions removing a large component, look for cradles, jacks, or a jig in the answer.

KEY POINTS

  • Adequate support during repair prevents further distortion or damage.
  • Landing gear or jacks may support the aircraft; cradles hold removed components.
  • Extensive fuselage or wing center section repairs may require a jig to distribute loads.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch04.txt "Structural Support During Repair"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.