When can a stall occur during flight?

A stall can occur during flight under various flight conditions due to the nature of aerodynamics. The stall is defined as a loss of lift caused by the wing exceeding its critical angle of attack, regardless of whether the aircraft is climbing, cruising, descending, or in a turn.

Many scenarios can lead to a stall, such as improper control inputs, insufficient airspeed, or an abrupt maneuver like a steep turn or pull-up, which may occur at any flight phase. This versatility in potential stall scenarios is crucial for pilots to understand, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper speed and control inputs throughout all phases of flight, not just during takeoff or descent. Recognizing that stalls can happen in a variety of conditions enhances a pilot's ability to manage flight safety effectively and respond appropriately to avoid them.