Quantcast

FAA approves temporary use of speed tape for aircraft repairs

Explore Japan for free? Japan Airlines offers free domestic flights to foreign travelers
Delta named Official Airline Partner of Birmingham City Football Club
American Airlines to Cut These Routes to Las Vegas, Orlando, and More — Here's Why
Alaska Airlines completes acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, expanding benefits and choice for travelers
Southwest wouldn't really start charging for bags — right?
JD Power ranked this Midwest airport as the best among largest airports in North America
Alaska Airlines Chief Plans More Routes After a Deal With Hawaiian
Air Canada could begin suspending flights soon as strike deadline nears
JetBlue's new ticket policy entitles every passenger to a carry-on bag
Why United Airlines’ CEO makes as few decisions as possible
American invests in the future of aviation maintenance with new jobs, additional work
DOT probe seeks to determine if frequent flyer programs are fair to travelers
American Airlines flight diverted after passenger starts vaping
Russian Airline Wants $100 Million From Canada for Seizing Its Giant Cargo Plane
Here's where American Airlines is adding flights to Europe in summer 2025
Major airline grounds Airbus A350 fleet, citing faulty engine component
Airline CEO wants airports to cap passengers at 2 alcoholic drinks to limit on-board disruptions
Regulator cuts Malaysia Airlines' air operator certificate duration after probe
United Airlines flight attendants are prepared to strike. Here's why it's still unlikely.
2 workers killed, 1 injured in tire explosion at a Delta Air Lines shop in Atlanta
Emirates Will Buy 5 Airbus A380s From Lessor For $200 Million
Delta Air Lines named official airline of the WNBA
Pair Of C-Suite Officials Depart Wheels Up
LAX Receives Final Cars for People Mover Train
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines merger clears Justice Department hurdle, now faces DOT
Alaska Airlines flight attendants reject new contract, union says there's 'more work to do'
Elliott Investment To Push For 10 New Boardroom Directors At Southwest Airlines
Alaska Air Backs JetZero Blended-Wing Design
AI in Aviation Line Maintenance: A Strategic Response to Delays, Satisfaction, and Staffing Challenges
Air taxi service plans for 2026 Los Angeles launch at USC, SoFi and LAX
FAA approves temporary use of speed tape for aircraft repairs
Policy
Webp received 2118139061997204
Timothy L. Arel Chief Operating Officer of FAA | Federal Aviation Administration Website

Technically known as speed tape, this tool is essential for temporary repairs on aircraft, allowing them to continue operations despite minor damages. Speed tape can handle extreme conditions such as temperature changes, moisture, high speed, and UV exposure. It is used by airlines worldwide for quick fixes like stone chips.

Made of aluminum foil with a strong adhesive, speed tape secures various materials including metal and plastic. It is applied both inside and outside the aircraft by ground crews until comprehensive repairs can be scheduled.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved speed tape for temporary repairs provided it does not compromise structural integrity. The FAA emphasizes that permanent repairs should follow as soon as possible according to maintenance schedules and regulatory guidelines.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

While effective in maintaining flight schedules without delays, the use of speed tape can cause anxiety among passengers who may perceive it as unsafe. Airlines are tasked with ensuring proper application and understanding its limitations.

Speed tape's durability allows it to withstand temperatures from -65°F to 300°F and speeds up to 600 miles per hour. Its use is common for issues like peeling paint or small stone chips but remains controversial due to public perception.

Airlines assure that the safety of flights is not compromised by using speed tape temporarily. This reassurance aligns with the FAA's classification of speed tape as safe when used correctly.

Speed tape's cost-effectiveness makes it a valuable tool in aviation maintenance despite its temporary nature. It must be applied by trained personnel aware of its pros and cons.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Star Alliance has been named the World's Best Airline Alliance at the 2025 Skytrax Awards.

Jul 12, 2025

SAS and Air France have applied for a codeshare network covering ten U.S. destinations, including New York's JFK and Los Angeles' LAX.

Jul 12, 2025

Aviation analytics firm Cirium has released its June 2025 On-Time Performance (OTP) report, which analyzes global punctuality trends among airlines and airports.

Jul 12, 2025

United Airlines is set to resume flights to Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport on July 21, 2025.

Jul 12, 2025

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport experienced significant growth in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers.

Jul 12, 2025

Emirates' fleet currently includes 253 widebody aircraft, with the addition of eight Airbus A350-900s.

Jul 12, 2025