PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight
FAA · Retrieved 2026-09-05
Educational reference; original Owl summariesAERODYNAMICS
Aerodynamic stall
FLIGHT SCIENCE / CONCEPT REFERENCE
SCIENCEConditions & principles
A reduction in lift capability associated with excessive angle of attack and separated flow.
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
PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight ↗Edition / snapshot: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023Retrieved: 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
The boundary layer cannot remain attached against the pressure recovery over the airfoil. Separation spreads and the lift coefficient falls beyond its maximum.
02
Aircraft response
Buffet, changed control effectiveness and a loss of lift may occur. Stall speed changes with weight, configuration and load factor even when the critical angle is similar.
03
Context & interpretation
Stall is defined by flow and angle of attack, not by engine operation. Contamination can alter the stall characteristics and critical angle.
Physical relationship
VS ∝ √(W / (ρ S CLmax))Proportional relationship for a steady one-g reference; actual limits come from aircraft data.
Sources & context
Educational explanation of physical mechanisms. Aircraft-specific procedures, limitations and current weather information are separate references.