Alcoa’s independent internal research in advanced commercial fuselage structure is based on combining advanced alloys and novel design concepts with innovative manufacturing techniques to achieve significant weight and/or cost savings over current built-up airframe construction. A variety of built-up and integral concepts are being considered in our studies which include improved 7xxx alloys, improved 2xxx alloys as well as Al-Li options. We are also exploring the potential to significantly improve the damage tolerance and residual strength of both built-up and integral panels by selectively reinforcing the panels with high strength, fatigue insensitive bonded straps. This presentation will provide an overview of the Alcoa approach to evaluate and identify promising fuselage concepts, provide the results of trade studies for crown, side panels and belly panels, and summarize some of the key issues that need to be addressed through cooperation between airframe OEMs, certifying agencies, material suppliers, research establishments, and subcontractors.