Definition
An elastic cord, typically made of rubber strands enclosed in a woven fabric sheath, used in aircraft to absorb shock loads or to assist the movement of mechanical components. In powerplant and airframe applications, bungee cords are commonly found in landing gear shock absorption systems and in some control assist mechanisms.
Plain English
A strong stretchy cord used in some aircraft to soak up bumps or to help pull a part back into position.
Context Anchor
Seen during aircraft maintenance inspections where a flexible cord is used to pull, support, or return a part to position.
Derivation
The word 'bungee' first appeared in 19th-century English as slang for india-rubber, the stretchy material the cords were originally made from. Knowing the root reminds you that the defining feature is elasticity, not the cord shape.
Why Pilots Care
Bungee cords age, harden, and lose their elasticity over time. A worn bungee in a landing gear or control system may not absorb or assist as designed, which can affect handling and is a routine inspection item for maintenance technicians.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a bungee cord only as a luggage tie-down. On an aircraft, it is a specified elastic part that must be in good condition and installed correctly.
Example Sentence 1
During the inspection, the technician replaced the landing gear bungee cord because it had lost its elasticity.
Example Sentence 2
During the inspection the mechanic checked the bungee cord that holds the engine cowling closed.