How does wood's weight compare to composite materials in aviation?

In aviation, wood's weight is indeed generally heavier than composite materials but lighter than many metals. Composites, such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, are engineered to provide strength and durability while maintaining a lower weight compared to traditional materials like wood. This makes them particularly advantageous in aircraft design, where weight savings can lead to improved fuel efficiency and performance.

Wood, while being a natural material with its own set of strength characteristics, typically does not match the weight efficiency of modern composites. In comparison with metals, many types of metals such as aluminum or steel are denser and thus heavier than wood, allowing wood to fit into the described comparative categories.

Understanding these comparisons helps illustrate why manufacturers may choose one material over another based on the requirements for weight, strength, and overall performance in aviation applications.