By Mike Bibb
Darwin 3 19 26 Picture retrieved from the web of an airplane worker applying some kind of adhesive tape to a piece of the plane's wing.
"I don't fly much but when I do, I fly Spirit. Stay flying, my friends."
Okay, a slight alteration of a popular beer commercial — but you get my drift. Sometimes, it's better to laugh than cry.
Maybe, more therapeutic, too.
First of all, I'm not familiar with the details behind the photo appearing on the web, or why a small section of the plane's wing was being taped back on. Other than the fact it was in need of a quick fix.
However, the incident apparently happened on an actual Spirit flight while, presumably, the plane was on the ground, temporarily awaiting the technician's tape application to repair a loose piece of sheet metal.
At least, I assume the plane wasn't in the air. If it was, then the dude must be wearing a super sticky pair of shoes and hair gel.
I'd imagine several of the plane's passengers booked another flight — or demanded a refund after seeing what was going on.
Unfortunately, it's not a good look for the company to have a video of one of its planes being "duct taped" together. Particularly, since the video has gone viral.
On the other hand, I've learned taping things on airplanes is not as uncommon as we may think.
Actually, there's a special tape the industry uses for such situations.
Here's an explanation: "What may look like duct tape on an airplane wing is actually speed tape, a specialized adhesive used for temporary repairs that is safe and effective in aviation.
What is Speed Tape?
Speed tape is an aluminum pressure-sensitive tape specifically designed for use in aviation. Unlike regular duct tape, speed tape is engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and high-speed conditions, making it suitable for temporary repairs on aircraft surfaces. It is often used to cover areas where paint has peeled or to seal minor cracks, ensuring that the aircraft can continue to operate safely until a more permanent repair can be made." — Speed Tape, Wikipedia
Not certain this information will make anyone feel more comfortable when finding out the plane they're riding in has been taped together. Especially, when cruising 35,000' at 450 mph they randomly look out the window and see parts of the wing covered with several shiny rows of some sort of packing tape.
I doubt there's enough adult beverages on board to calm a load of overly anxious passengers.
That is, if the pilot and crew hasn't already beat them to it!!!
