How would you determine the strength requirements for fabric used to re-cover an aircraft?

• A. The fabric must be of at least the quality and strength of the original manufacturer
• B. The fabric strength is chosen by weight of the aircraft
• C. The fabric must be the same color
• D. The fabric only needs to be corrosion resistant

Answer: (A)

Fabric strength for re-covering must conform to the original design: use fabric that meets or exceeds the original manufacturer's specification. The airframe was designed around the strength of that specific fabric, so applying material with lower strength can compromise the load-carrying capability and safety under flight loads. Color is cosmetic and does not ensure structural strength, and corrosion resistance is not the primary concern for fabric coverings. The aircraft’s weight category isn’t what sets the fabric strength; it’s the manufacturer’s material specification and the designed load limits that matter.