What is a common consequence of material fatigue in aircraft?

Material fatigue in aircraft is a significant concern as it refers to the weakening of a material caused by repeated loading and unloading cycles over time. This can lead to microstructural changes within the material, which accumulate and eventually manifest as cracks or other forms of damage. As fatigue progresses, the reliability and integrity of the aircraft structure are compromised, leading to a heightened risk of potential structural failure during operations.

Understanding the consequences of material fatigue is critical in aviation safety, as even a small crack can lead to catastrophic failures if not detected and addressed in time. This is why rigorous maintenance checks and monitoring for signs of fatigue are essential practices in the aviation industry. While other options suggest improvements or positive outcomes, they do not accurately reflect the risks associated with material fatigue, which is inherently damaging to aircraft performance and safety.