What is the primary material used in the construction of the ERJ-145's fuselage?

The primary material used in the construction of the ERJ-145's fuselage is aluminum alloy. This choice reflects the typical practices in aircraft design, particularly for regional jets, where aluminum alloys are favored due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio, good fatigue resistance, and ease of fabrication. Aluminum alloys are lightweight, which is critical for achieving the necessary performance and fuel efficiency of the aircraft, while also providing sufficient structural integrity to withstand the stresses encountered during flight.

Other materials like steel, while strong and durable, are heavier and not as commonly used for large sections of aircraft fuselage in modern designs. Carbon fiber and composite materials typically offer weight savings and design flexibility, but they are usually incorporated in specific structural components or sections where high strength-to-weight ratios are paramount. In the case of the ERJ-145, the use of aluminum alloy for the fuselage is a testament to the design principles prioritizing overall efficiency and maintainability.