Why might composite materials be preferred over metal for certain aircraft applications?

Composite materials are often preferred over metals in certain aircraft applications primarily because they offer a combination of lightweight properties and resistance to corrosion. The lower weight of composites allows for increased fuel efficiency and improved performance, which is crucial in aviation where every kilogram can impact overall efficiency.

Furthermore, composite materials do not corrode like metals do, which results in lower maintenance costs and longer service life. Their resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and salt makes them particularly advantageous in various operating conditions.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the qualities of composites. For instance, composites are designed to be durable and often outperform metals in terms of strength-to-weight ratio. Additionally, while composite materials can be more expensive upfront, they typically reduce maintenance costs over time due to their resistance to corrosion and fatigue, making them cost-effective in the long run.