Register

Aileron Use in a Stall

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Instinctively using ailerons to correct a wing drop during a stall is a dangerous reaction, despite some aileron control often remaining.
  • Excessive aileron input can worsen a stall by increasing the angle of attack at the wingtip, potentially leading to a complete stall there and a spin.
  • To recover from a stall, pilots should maintain coordinated flight with the rudder, immediately lower the nose, and add power to restore airflow and make ailerons effective again.
See a mistake? Contact us.

During stall recovery training, fighting the urge to use the aileron to overcome a sudden wing drop can take forethought and even sheer will power on the part of the student pilot. In a true stall emergency, which can take us completely by surprise, picking up a dropping wing with the aileron can be an instinctual, but also a very dangerous, reaction.

Most light airplanes are designed with wings that stall progressively outward from the wing roots to the wingtips. This provides a measure of aileron control even in a stall as the wingtips continue to provide some degree of lift and the ailerons still have some control effect.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE