Which type of welding is commonly used in aircraft structural repairs?

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) is the correct choice for commonly used welding in aircraft structural repairs due to its precision and the quality of welds it produces. GTAW, also known as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, allows for the control of heat input and minimizes the risk of distortion, which is crucial in aircraft applications. It employs a non-consumable tungsten electrode and requires an inert gas to shield the weld area, ensuring that the material does not oxidize or become contaminated.

This method is particularly advantageous for welding thin materials, which is often the case in aircraft components, because it can produce clean and aesthetically pleasing welds with excellent mechanical properties. The ability to weld a variety of materials, including aluminum and titanium, which are commonly used in aircraft construction, further enhances GTAW's utility in this field.

In contrast, while other welding processes might be effective for different applications, they do not offer the same level of control and quality required for high-stakes repairs in aviation environments. For instance, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and MIG welding can be used for various applications but may not achieve the fine precision necessary for aircraft structural integrity. Laser beam welding is typically used for high-speed