What is the consequence of exceeding the critical angle of attack?

Exceeding the critical angle of attack results in a stall condition, which occurs when the flow of air over the wings of an aircraft separates from the wing's surface. This separation drastically reduces the lift generated by the wings and can lead to a loss of control. The critical angle of attack is the angle at which the wing achieves its maximum lift; beyond this angle, the airflow becomes turbulent and unstable, leading to decreased aerodynamic efficiency.

When the aircraft reaches this angle, the airfoil is no longer effectively generating lift, causing it to "stall." This condition is particularly dangerous because it can happen suddenly and without warning. Pilots are trained to recognize the signs of an approaching stall and to take corrective actions to reduce the angle of attack and regain lift. Understanding this concept is crucial for flight safety and effective aircraft handling.