A method for connecting at least two sheet-like formations, in particular at least two metal sheets with a thin material thickness for aircraft, comprises establishing butt-joint connections between the sheet-like formations by forming a joining region; mechanical processing of the sheet-like formations and/or of the joining region; mechanical and/or chemical adhesive pre-treatment of the sheet-like formations and/or of the joining region; and pasting-on at least one reinforcement element in the region of the top and/or the bottom of the joining region, wherein for the purpose of forming a second load path the width of the at least one reinforcement element is wider than the width 16 of the joining region. A connection is provided and made according to the method. A lightweight structure is also provided that comprises at least one connection according to the invention.