What is the safest policy when selecting aircraft wood?

Using straight-grained, defect-free aircraft-quality wood is the safest policy when selecting wood for aircraft applications. This type of wood ensures a uniform structure that can withstand the various stressors experienced in flight. Straight grain indicates that the fibers run parallel to each other, providing maximum strength and stability, which is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the aircraft.

Defect-free wood enhances safety by minimizing the risk of weaknesses, such as knots or splits, which can compromise performance and lead to failure under load. Aircraft-quality wood is specifically graded and treated to meet rigorous standards, ensuring that it has the necessary properties for aviation use, such as light weight, durability, and resistance to environmental degradation.

Choosing any available wood for convenience, selecting based on cost, or preferring wood with knots reduces the safety margin significantly. These options can lead to using materials that are not suitable for the stresses involved in aviation, potentially resulting in severe safety hazards. Therefore, the safest approach prioritizes the quality and structural characteristics of the wood used in aircraft construction.