Plain English Meaning

It is the wing angle, relative to the oncoming air, at which the wing stops flying. Pass that angle and the wing stalls, no matter how fast or slow the airplane is moving.

Full Definition

The specific angle of attack at which the wing can no longer produce enough lift to support the airplane, because airflow over the upper surface separates and breaks down. This angle is a fixed property of the wing's design and does not change with airspeed, weight, bank angle, or load factor.

Context Anchor

Seen in stall awareness, takeoff , and engine-failure discussions, especially when deciding whether to keep the nose down or attempt a turn toward the .