At what speed does mach tuck typically occur?

Mach tuck typically occurs at MCRIT, or the critical mach number. This is the point at which the airflow over the wings of an aircraft starts to reach supersonic speeds, leading to a shift in aerodynamic center and a change in the lift characteristics. As the aircraft approaches MCRIT, it may experience a loss of control effectiveness in pitch due to the formation of shockwaves on the wings, which causes the nose to drop. Understanding this concept is crucial for pilots, as flying at or above MCRIT can lead to increased drag and a potential stall risk if not managed correctly. Therefore, recognizing the relationship between MCRIT and mach tuck is essential for flight safety and aircraft handling.