Let $E \rightarrow F$ be a principal $G$-bundle. Let $\alpha$ be a connection 1-form with values in the Lie algebra of $G$. Let $\omega$ denote the curvature 2-form of connection $\alpha$.
We know that $\omega =0$ everywhere i.e., $\alpha$ is a flat connection if and only if the distribution $ker (\alpha)= \{v_x \in T_x E \ | \ \alpha (v_x)=0 \ ; x \in E \} $ on $E$ is completely integrable.
Now, suppose we have a norm on the space of 2-forms. We start with an "almost flat connection $\alpha$ " i.e., the curvature form satisfies inequality, $|\omega| < \epsilon$ everywhere, for sufficiently small $\epsilon$. Is it true that the distribution $\ker(\alpha)$ on $E$ is "close" to a completely integrable distribution? and "close" in what sense? We may assume that the base $F$ is compact.
I have a feeling that with appropriate notion of "closeness" of distributions the above question has an affirmative answer. While I am trying to show that it is so, I have a difficulty deducing any useful information about connection 1-form from bounds on curvature. Thanks in advance for bringing in any new insight.
I have posted this question on Math SE also. https://math.stackexchange.com/questions/47571/curvature-and-connections-in-principal-g-bundles