Which components of the airframe must be protected from damage when using paint stripper?

The correct answer focuses on the need to protect windshields and windows when using paint strippers. Windshields and windows on an aircraft are typically made from materials such as polycarbonate or acrylic, which can be adversely affected by chemical paint strippers. These strippers often contain harsh solvents that can cause discoloration, clouding, or even cracking of the transparent materials, leading to significant visibility issues and compromising safety.

While aluminum structures, fuselage, landing gear, and metal control surfaces also require care when painting or using chemical agents, the specific vulnerability of windshields and windows to these solvents makes them especially critical to protect during the stripping process. This emphasis on safeguarding the integrity of visibility components aligns with best practices in aeronautical maintenance and repair.