What defines the structure of a crashworthy seat in an aircraft?

The defining characteristic of a crashworthy seat in an aircraft primarily centers around impact resistance. This aspect is crucial because a crashworthy seat is specifically designed to minimize injuries to occupants during an impact. The construction and materials used in these seats are engineered to absorb and dissipate energy during a crash, thereby providing enhanced safety for passengers and crew.

Impact resistance encompasses various design features, such as reinforced frames, energy-absorbing materials, and the ability to withstand significant forces without compromising passenger safety. These features are evaluated and tested to ensure they meet rigorous safety standards set by aviation authorities.

While weight reduction, comfort level, and foldability might be considerations in the overall design of aircraft seats, they do not fundamentally define a crashworthy seat. The primary goal in creating a crashworthy seat is to ensure maximum protection during an accident scenario, making impact resistance the essential criterion.