Residual stress is one of the factors affecting the machining deformation of monolithic structure parts in the aviation industry. Thus,the studies on machining deformation rules induced by residual stresses largely depend on correctly and efficiently measuring the residual stresses of workpieces. A modified layer-removal method is proposed to measure residual stress by analysing the characteristics of a traditional layer-removal method. The coefficients of strain release are then deduced according to the simulation results using the finite element method( FEM). Moreover,the residual stress in a 7075T651 aluminium alloy plate is measured using the proposed method,and the results are then analyzed and compared with the data obtained by the traditional methods. The analysis indicates that the modified layer-removal method is effective and practical for measuring the residual stress distribution in pre-stretched aluminium alloy plates. Residual stress is one of the factors affecting the machining deformation of monolithic structure parts in the aviation industry. Thus, the studies on machining deformation rules induced by residual strains largely depend on correctly and advantageously measuring the residual stresses of workpieces. A modified layer-removal method is proposed to measure residual stress by analysing the characteristics of a traditional layer-removal method. The coefficients of strain release are then deduced according to the simulation results using the finite element method (FEM). Furthermore, the residual stress in a 7075T651 aluminum The analysis indicates that the modified layer-removal method is effective and practical for measuring the residual stress distribution in pre-stretched aluminum alloy plates.