Which procedure helps to identify potential material fatigue issues before they become significant?

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential procedures for identifying potential material fatigue issues before they escalate into significant problems. These activities involve systematically examining the aircraft's structure and components for signs of wear, corrosion, cracks, and other deterioration that can result from stress and fatigue over time. By conducting thorough inspections at scheduled intervals or after certain flight hours, maintenance personnel can detect early indicators of fatigue, allowing for timely repairs and preventing failures that could compromise safety.

While installing new technology can enhance monitoring capabilities, it does not directly address existing fatigue issues unless paired with regular inspections. Painting the aircraft may provide a protective layer, but it does not serve as a method for identifying structural weaknesses or fatigue. Reducing operational hours might minimize stress on the materials temporarily, but it does not actively monitor or detect existing issues. Therefore, in the context of proactive maintenance and safety, regular inspections and maintenance are the most effective approach for managing potential material fatigue.