Definition
A network of fine, hairline cracks that develops on the surface of transparent plastic materials such as aircraft windshields and side windows, caused by age, exposure to sunlight, temperature changes, chemical contact, or stress. Crazing degrades optical clarity and can weaken the panel.
Plain English
A spider-web pattern of tiny surface cracks on a plastic windshield or window. The plastic is starting to break down, making it harder to see through and weaker than it should be.
Context Anchor
Seen during the visual preflight inspection, especially when checking the windshield, side windows, and other clear panels for safe visibility and condition.
Derivation
From the older verb 'craze,' meaning to crack or shatter into small pieces, originally used to describe fine cracks in pottery glaze. The word was carried over to plastics and aviation because the visual pattern is the same — a net of small surface cracks.
Why Pilots Care
Crazing reduces forward visibility and may eventually weaken the windshield enough to require replacement before safe flight.
Intuition Check
Crazing does not mean the window is dirty or simply scratched. It means the clear material itself has developed fine crack-like stress marks.
Example Sentence 1
During the walk-around, the pilot noticed crazing on the lower edge of the windshield and made a note to discuss it with the maintenance shop.
Example Sentence 2
Light crazing on the canopy still allowed clear vision, but the instructor recommended monitoring it before solo flights.