Which part of the fuselage is necessary to maintain structural integrity during flight?

The longerons are critical components that run the length of the fuselage and play a vital role in maintaining structural integrity during flight. They are designed to bear tension and compressive loads, effectively distributing these forces throughout the aircraft structure. This ensures that the fuselage can withstand the aerodynamic stresses encountered during various phases of flight, such as takeoff, cruising, and landing.

Longerons are typically attached to other framework components, such as frames or ribs, helping to form the overall aerodynamic shape of the fuselage. Their structural contributions are essential to maintaining the overall strength and rigidity of the aircraft, preventing deformation and potential failure in high-stress situations.

Other components, like stabilizers and the rudder, while important for control and stability, do not primarily serve the function of maintaining the structural integrity of the fuselage itself. Their roles are more about managing airflow and directional control rather than providing the core strength that longerons offer in the overall fuselage design.