In recent years there have been many airline passengers who have been posting on the social media photos of wings that have films. Most commonly in the comments accompanying the documents, the following are made Calls for proposals immediate exit from the planes - for reasons of concern.
Η Washington Post contacted representatives of the Federal Aviation Administration of USA, to explain what the tape is doing where it logically shouldn't be, for everyone's safety.
First of all, it was clarified that this is not a sticky tape, but a aluminium tape, material used as a temporary solution for a damage and is extremely strong.
Veteran pilot and safety consultant, John Nance said «it would never be possible to use pieces of duct tape, the kind we use at home, on an airplane.
This material is called ‘fast tape’ and is designed for the purpose it is used for. That is, for temporary, minor repairs to non-structural aircraft components.».
Each airline describes the approved uses of the tape in its maintenance manual, which must then be approved by the FAA - and any other relevant agency.
It is extremely regular, capable of withstanding moisture, fire, rays UV, chemical Substances, winds up to 965 kilometres the time and in extreme environmental changes (licensed for use from -54 to 148 degrees Celsius) “if properly implemented”.
The tape is placed after the weather conditions have exposed a part of the wing to a draught.
The aeroplane is safe to fly in this condition “However, airlines want to be safe, even in the event of further weather exposure, until they can proceed with the repair.
It's not something you would use to hold two parts of an airplane together. That's what leather is used for, but you don't want to use something that will exacerbate the peeling once it's started.”.
Yes, the strips are usually put in for aesthetic reasons, as the colour has peeled off from the UV rays.
«‘Fast film’ is not a material you want to use, for longer than you have to, especially when it is visible to passengers.». They get nervous, they ask questions and the company has to explain.
«However, at certain times there is not enough time for immediate repair’.
The fine for incorrect use
The Federal Aviation Administration had imposed in 2002 a fine of $805,000 United Airlines, for 193 flights with improperly applied speed tape.
While the airline's maintenance manual allowed the use of the tape, the agency said a United engineer had applied it to holes that were too large and close to the edge of the airfoil.
The airline disputed the fine, saying the aircraft were safe to fly.
By Niki Bakoulis
