ATPL Airframe Practice Test

The typical wing structure is composed of a front and rear main spar, along with ribs and stringers, which work together to provide strength, rigidity, and aerodynamic shape to the wing.

The main spars are the primary load-bearing components that run along the length of the wing, essentially resembling the backbone of the structure. They support the loads that the wing encounters during flight, including aerodynamic loads and forces from control surfaces. The front spar typically takes the forward loads and structural requirements, while the rear spar supports the trailing edge of the wing and any control mechanisms.

Ribs are crucial for maintaining the aerodynamic shape of the wing; they give the wing its cross-sectional form and distribute loads across the surface area. Stringers are used to connect the ribs and add additional strength and rigidity between them, helping to create a more robust structure. This combination ensures that the wing can withstand various stresses and remains stable during flight.

The other options lack one or more of these essential components, which are necessary for a typical wing structure designed for durability and performance. Without both spars and the supportive structure provided by ribs and stringers, the wing would not have the necessary strength and shape to function effectively.