What does the term "aerodynamic stall" refer to?

The term "aerodynamic stall" specifically refers to a disruption of airflow over the wing, which results in a loss of lift. This phenomenon occurs when the angle of attack—the angle between the chord line of the wing and the oncoming airflow—exceeds a critical limit. When this limit is surpassed, the smooth airflow over the wing becomes turbulent, leading to a breakdown in lift generation.

In aviation, understanding stalls is crucial for safe aircraft operation, as they can occur at any airspeed and configuration. It’s important for pilots to recognize the signs of an impending stall and to know how to recover from one safely.

Other options describe different aviation concepts. A sudden loss of engine power pertains to mechanical failure rather than aerodynamics. Excess drag is related to increased resistance but does not directly equate to a stall. Lastly, a normal phase of landing might involve slowing down and configuring the aircraft but does not describe what an aerodynamic stall is. Understanding the correct definition of aerodynamic stall is essential for pilots to recognize and manage this condition during flight operations.