Which benefit made wood a popular choice for early aircraft?

Wood became a popular choice for early aircraft primarily due to its advantageous weight properties. The lightweight nature of wood allowed for the construction of aircraft frames that were strong enough to withstand the stresses of flight while still being light enough to enable flight. This characteristic was crucial at a time when engineers were focusing on maximizing payload and minimizing the power required from engines, which were not as advanced as they are today.

Additionally, wood is relatively easy to work with, making it suitable for the intricate designs needed for aircraft. The natural properties of various types of wood, such as flexibility and resilience, further contributed to their effectiveness in aviation applications during the early 20th century. Thus, the structural advantages provided by reduced weight were essential in the pioneering days of aviation.