Which of the following contributes to a stall in flight?

The correct answer is based on the relationship between the angle of attack and the aerodynamic principles governing an aircraft's flight. A stall occurs when the angle of attack exceeds a critical threshold, leading to a significant loss of lift.

As the angle of attack increases beyond this critical point, airflow over the wings starts to separate, resulting in a dramatic decrease in lift-producing capability. This condition typically occurs during maneuvers that require higher angles of attack, such as turning or climbing, where pilots may inadvertently push the aircraft past its limits. It is essential for pilots to be aware of their aircraft's critical angle of attack to prevent stalling.

Factors like low airspeed and excessive weight can contribute to a stall but are not the primary cause. Low airspeed diminishes lift, potentially leading to a stall in conjunction with a high angle of attack, while excessive weight can increase the stall speed, making the aircraft more susceptible to stalling under certain conditions. Stability and control features of an aircraft are designed to assist pilots in avoiding stalls rather than being direct contributors to the stall phenomenon itself.

Understanding the mechanics of stall and the significance of angle of attack is crucial for safe flying and for managing aircraft performance in various flight scenarios.