What type of wood is typically avoided in aviation applications due to its strength limitations?

In aviation applications, the choice of wood is critical due to the structural demands placed on materials. Softwoods, which include species like pine and spruce, generally have lower strength-to-weight ratios compared to hardwoods. This means they might not provide the necessary strength and durability required for aircraft components. Additionally, softwoods may exhibit higher susceptibility to warping and other dimensional changes under varying environmental conditions, which can compromise the integrity of an aircraft structure.

While specific softwoods like spruce are commonly used in aviation because of their favorable properties, the term "softwood" encompasses a broader category that can include less suitable types that might not meet the rigorous standards of aircraft design. Therefore, the classification of wood as a softwood suggests inherent limitations in strength that can render it less desirable, especially in critical applications within aerospace engineering.