Introduction In aviation, the term stall often conjures images of engine failure, but this is a misconception. A stall refers to the loss of lift when an aircraft’s wing exceeds its critical angle of attack, disrupting smooth airflow. Despite its critical nature, stalls are a routine focus of pilot training and a cornerstone of aerodynamic understanding. This article demystifies stalls, exploring their causes, types, recovery techniques, and their role in aviation safety. Illustration explaining aircraft stall, including causes, recovery techniques, and safety considerations. What is a Stall? A stall occurs when the angle of attack (AoA)—the angle between the wing’s chord line and the oncoming air—becomes too steep. Beyond the critical AoA (typically 15–20 degrees for most aircraft), airflow separates from the wing’s upper surface, drastically reducing lift and increasing drag. Key Note: Stalls are not caused by low airspeed alone. An aircraft can stall at any speed or attitude if the ...