Which of the following describes a key characteristic of a stall?

A stall occurs when an aircraft exceeds its critical angle of attack, leading to a significant loss of lift. One of the primary characteristics of a stall is an increase in drag, which results from the disturbed airflow over the wings. As lift diminishes, the aircraft's performance is compromised, making it unable to maintain altitude or continue effective flight maneuvers. This excessive drag can hinder the aircraft's speed and responsiveness, creating a situation where control is difficult. Understanding this characteristic is vital for pilots, as recognizing the onset of a stall and the resulting increase in drag and loss of performance is crucial for effective stall recovery and safe flight management.