NASA Glenn · Guide to Aeronautics
NASA Glenn · Retrieved 2026-09-05
Educational reference; original Owl summariesPROPULSION
Compressor stall & surge
FLIGHT SCIENCE / CONCEPT REFERENCE
SCIENCEConditions & principles
Unstable compressor flow can involve local blade separation or a broader compression-system oscillation.
REFERENCE COVERAGE3 / 3 editorial sections
PROVENANCE1 linked source
LAST RETRIEVED2026-09-05
Editorial section coverage describes the article structure, not scientific validation or completeness.
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Source editions
NASA Glenn · Guide to Aeronautics ↗Edition / snapshot: Reference snapshot, September 2026Retrieved: 2026-09-05
Retrieval dates record when Owl obtained the data; they are not publication dates or proof that a specification is current. Where the edition contains only a snapshot date, the original publication date is not recorded.
01
Mechanism
A compressor blade row has an aerodynamic operating range. Distorted inflow or an unfavorable pressure-flow relationship can drive separation and instability.
02
Aircraft response
A stall can reduce pressure rise; surge involves large system-level flow and pressure fluctuations, potentially including reversal. The terms describe related but different behavior.
03
Context & interpretation
Engine control systems and variable geometry help maintain margin. Actual indications and actions depend on the specific engine and aircraft.
Sources & context
Educational explanation of physical mechanisms. Aircraft-specific procedures, limitations and current weather information are separate references.