A
leading edge structure for an aerodynamic surface includes a support structure made of
fiber-reinforced synthetic material and a
skin structure made of
metal mounted on the support structure. The support structure includes an inner laminate, an outer laminate, and longitudinally extending tubes and channels arranged between the inner and outer laminates, as well as a synthetic foam filler material in the spaces between the tubes, channels, and laminates. The
skin structure includes an outer
skin having perforations, especially in the form of suction holes, an inner skin, and spacer members interconnected therebetween so as to form a substantially form-stable
metal skin structure. Respective holes pass through the inner skin, the outer laminate, and the walls of the tubes and channels in order to communicate the suction hole perforations of the outer skin with the interior spaces within the tubes and channels. The
skin structure is adhesively bonded to the support structure. In a method for making the
leading edge structure, the prefabricated components of the support structure are laid up, molded and cured in a positive mold, the prefabricated components of the
skin structure are formed and soldered together on a positive mold, and then the skin structure is adhesively bonded onto the support structure.