Abstract: Based on the finite element principle, a method for nonlinear analysis of the RC hingeless arches is Presented. With this method, a model simulating discrete planar elements has been used. Nonlinear material properties and the influnce of prograssive cracking on a structure are taken into account. Criteria of failure of such a structure have been investegated. A program NFEHA86 based on this method has made possible the determination of displacements, stresses, strains and cracks of a RC hingeless arch throughout the loading progress. The results obtained by this method agree fairly well with the experimental ones.