FAA Ground School Practice Test

What might happen to lift if the angle of attack is too high?

1. It will increase

2. It will decrease and potentially stall

3. It will remain the same

4. It will fluctuate

The correct answer is: It will decrease and potentially stall

When the angle of attack is increased beyond a critical point, the airflow over the wing becomes disturbed, leading to a breakdown of the smooth airflow. This disturbance causes a reduction in lift, which can ultimately result in a stall. Stall occurs when the wing exceeds its critical angle of attack, and the airflow can no longer stay attached to the upper surface of the wing. As lift decreases, the aircraft may not be able to maintain altitude and could lose control if the situation is not promptly remedied. This is crucial for pilots to understand as managing angle of attack is a fundamental part of safe flight operations. Hence, a high angle of attack can lead to a significant and potentially dangerous reduction in lift, making a stall a very real possibility.