What is the primary purpose of the stringer in fuselage assembly?

The primary purpose of the stringer in fuselage assembly is to attach the skin. Stringers are structural elements that run longitudinally along the fuselage, providing support and stability to the external skin of the aircraft. By attaching the skin to the stringers, the overall integrity and shape of the fuselage are maintained, ensuring that the external surfaces are securely fastened and can withstand aerodynamic forces during flight.

While stringers also play a role in helping distribute loads throughout the structure, their main function is to facilitate the attachment of the skin, which is essential in creating a streamlined and robust fuselage. The effective attachment of the skin supports not only the aesthetics of the aircraft but also its performance and safety.