VH-TJO Fuselage dents?
 

Spotted this the other morning and took a few pics.

http://www.jetphotos.net/palbum/viewphoto.php?id=6670

What would cause that sort of pattern denting on the lower fuselage? And I have circled what appears to be a small hole, however I am sure its probably not. I don't know much about aircraft but I am sure some on here would be able to shed some light?

Nick

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.p...514451&nseq=13

April 10, 2005, shows a simimlar pattern on the fusealge.

And something similar seems to exist in this photo in the same area, taken August 3 2004.

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.p...443652&nseq=22

Anybody know what caused/causes this to happen?

I can speculate..

Speed holes..they make the plane go faster:p

It looks like its been hit multiple times with a rolling pin :o

For those of you who aren't simpsons fans:

Good pick, Rhys!

Something tells me you can't help but break out in tune every time you see a monorail, Nick. :p

haha thanks:p

love to know the actual reason for it though!

The ripples in the fuselage are caused by shear loads between the tail and C of G or undercarriage due to turbulence or heavy landings. The skin stretches are the moment of tension and deforms leaving a permanent wrinkle.

Each skin dent/buckle is recorded (most of which you'd never be able to find!) and must remain within certain limits.

The wrinkles disappear in-flight when the a/c is pressurised. It is obviously more common on the longer length 737 models.

Liam, thanks for the explanation. All makes sense now! I am sure seeing TJO is one of the older 734's that she has seen many turbulent and rough landings!