What occurs at the stall angle of attack?

At the stall angle of attack, airflow begins to separate from the wing surface, which leads to a significant loss of lift. This separation occurs because the airfoil reaches a critical angle where the smooth airflow over the wing is disrupted, causing turbulent flow instead. When this happens, the lift produced by the wing decreases dramatically, leading to conditions where the aircraft may no longer maintain controlled flight.

This is a critical concept in aerodynamics because understanding the stall angle is vital for pilots. It marks the boundary beyond which the aircraft can no longer sustain flight effectively, making it essential for safe maneuvering and recovery techniques. Recognizing the signs of an impending stall and understanding the characteristics of airflow at various angles of attack are crucial for pilot training and aircraft design.