In critical airflow areas like the leading edge, what is the required overlap at the seam?

In critical airflow areas such as the leading edge of an aircraft, it is essential to have a secure and aerodynamically efficient fabric covering. The recommended overlap at the seam in these areas is between 2 to 4 inches. This range provides adequate coverage to prevent the fabric from lifting or separating under aerodynamic loads, which can be caused by airflow and pressure changes when the aircraft is in motion.

A seam overlap of 2 to 4 inches ensures that the fabric layers are well-bonded, which helps maintain the integrity of the aircraft's surface and enhances overall performance. This critical overlap also minimizes the risk of turbulence and drag that could arise from insufficient overlap, which is vital for efficient flight operations. Understanding the specific requirements for seam overlaps in critical areas helps ensure that aircraft fabric covering adheres to safety and performance standards.