Plain English Meaning

The steepest angle the wing can meet the oncoming air before it stops flying and starts stalling. Tilt the wing any more than that into the wind and lift collapses.

Full Definition

The greatest angle of attack at which a wing can produce lift before airflow over its upper surface separates and the wing stalls. Beyond this angle, lift drops sharply regardless of airspeed, attitude, or aircraft weight. Often referred to as the critical angle of attack.

Context Anchor

Seen in lift, stall, slow flight, and landing discussions, especially when explaining why an can stall at many different speeds or .