What is the first step required for corrosion control on an aircraft?

Cleaning the aircraft is indeed the first step required for corrosion control. Proper cleaning is essential as it removes dirt, oils, and other contaminants that can trap moisture against the aircraft’s surface, providing a conducive environment for corrosion to develop. By ensuring that the surface is clean, you allow for better inspection of any potential damages or existing corrosion, and create a suitable base for further protective measures such as painting or applying corrosion inhibitors.

Without thorough cleaning, subsequent steps like inspection and protecting the surface may not be as effective. Dirt and residues can conceal early signs of corrosion and damage, leading to undetected issues that could worsen over time. Therefore, cleaning not only prepares the aircraft for inspection but also protects it from corrosion in the first place.

Other options, while important in the overall corrosion control process, hinge upon this initial step. For instance, painting and applying corrosion inhibitors are more effective on clean surfaces, and inspecting for damages is best conducted once the surface is free of contaminants.