Passenger photo sparks concern over airplane engine 'duct tape

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Passenger photo sparks concern over airplane engine 'duct tape

Research

Gary Leff Chief Financial Officer | View from the Wing

By Sky Industry News

Jul 7, 2024

On July 7, 2024, a passenger shared a photo of an aircraft with what appeared to be duct tape on its engine, raising concerns about aviation safety. This image highlights a common misunderstanding in aviation regarding the use of speed tape.

Speed tape, which resembles duct tape, is actually aluminum pressure-sensitive tape designed for minor and temporary repairs on aircraft. It adheres to the fuselage or wing at high speeds and has high resistance to weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Its application is strictly regulated and used only for non-structural damage that does not affect the aircraft's integrity.

Brian Dear tweeted an image of the taped plane on June 26, 2024, stating: "Well, it was fun while it lasted. Let's hope that duct tape holds @AmericanAir. Gulp."

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Such images can alarm passengers despite no compromise in safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines and aircraft manufacturers' structural repair manuals dictate when speed tape is appropriate. It is generally used for covering minor dents or scratches and securing loose objects until permanent repairs can be made.

Despite being airworthy, planes with visible speed tape can cause passengers to question the airline's maintenance practices. This incident underscores the need for better education among airline employees to explain these safety measures proactively to customers.

Pressure-sensitive tape has been in use since the 1840s, evolving significantly over time. However, public understanding of its application in aviation remains limited.