What might cause structural damage to an aircraft?

Severe turbulence is a significant factor that can lead to structural damage to an aircraft due to the extreme and unpredictable forces it generates. When an aircraft encounters severe turbulence, it can experience sudden and intense changes in altitude and attitude, subjecting its structure to stress that may exceed design limits. This can potentially cause physical damage to the airframe, control surfaces, and internal components.

In contrast, light turbulence typically does not exert sufficient force to damage an aircraft, and calm flight conditions or controlled descent maintain stability, effectively minimizing risks to structural integrity. Understanding these conditions is crucial for pilots and crew in anticipating and managing risks associated with adverse weather phenomena.