Definition
An aircraft structural method in which the airframe is built primarily from composite materials — typically layers of fiber reinforcement (such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, or aramid) bonded together with a resin matrix (such as epoxy) to form lightweight, high-strength components.
Plain English
Building the airplane out of layered fabrics or fibers soaked in resin and cured into hard, strong shapes, instead of out of metal sheets and rivets.
Context Anchor
Seen when studying aircraft structures, aircraft limitations, and preflight inspection of airplanes built from fiberglass, carbon fiber, or similar materials.
Derivation
From Latin componere, 'to put together.' A composite is something made by combining different materials so the result is stronger or better than either material alone — here, fibers for strength and resin to hold them in shape.
Why Pilots Care
It reduces aircraft weight while maintaining strength, improving performance and fuel efficiency, but demands specific inspection and repair methods different from metal airframes.
Analogy
A fiberglass boat is a familiar example of composite construction: fiber material and resin work together to make a light, strong shell.
Intuition Check
Composite construction does not mean the airplane is simply “plastic.” It means different materials are combined so each one contributes to the strength of the finished structure.
Example Sentence 1
The Cirrus SR22 uses composite construction, so any ramp damage to the fuselage needs to be inspected by a shop trained in composite repair.
Example Sentence 2
During the annual inspection the mechanic checked the composite construction surfaces for cracks or delamination.