Reflection of the fundamental modesa0ands0from the end of a plate is studied, in order to identify the extent to which the generation of non-propagating modes influences the field and could therefore affect Lamb wave NDE of the plate. Analytical predictions, Finite Element simulations and experimental measurements are presented for frequencies below thea1cut-off. It is shown that reflection of thea0mode is delayed by 90 degrees in phase and that there is significant additional motion due to non-propagating modes within about 5 plate thicknesses of the end. Reflection of thes0mode occurs without significant evidence of non-propagating modes or phase delay. ©2001 American Institute of Physics.