Plain English Meaning

A small hole or piercing made when something sharp pokes through the surface of a part.

Full Definition

A localized penetration of a composite structure caused by a sharp or pointed object striking the surface, producing a hole or piercing damage that breaks through one or more layers of the material.

Context Anchor

Seen when discussing damage to composite aircraft parts, especially during preflight or after an impact with a tool, rock, bird, or other sharp object.

Derivation

From the Latin punctura, meaning 'a pricking,' from pungere, 'to prick or pierce.' The same root gives us 'point' and 'puncture wound.' This helps because it captures the key idea: damage caused by a sharp point, not a broad impact.

Why Pilots Care

Composite materials can hide serious internal damage behind a small visible puncture. Even a minor-looking hole may indicate fibers and weakened structure underneath, so any puncture should be inspected before .