Which structural components of an airplane are often made from wood?

In the context of aviation, certain structural components of an airplane are indeed commonly made from wood, particularly in the earlier designs and in some specialized applications. Wings, tail surfaces, and fuselage frames are often crafted from wood due to its lightweight nature and good strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal material for those parts of the aircraft that require structural integrity while minimizing overall weight.

Wood also has excellent damping properties, which can help reduce vibrations in the airframe. Additionally, traditional wood laminates, such as plywood, can be engineered to provide the necessary strength for these structures, allowing for a balance between durability and performance.

The other components, such as engines and landing gear, require materials that can withstand higher stress and heat, like metals and composite materials, making wood unsuitable for those applications. Similarly, control panels, wiring harnesses, windows, and cockpit casings are typically constructed from materials that offer higher durability and resistance to environmental factors, which wood does not provide adequately.