How does a stall strip operate on an aircraft?

A stall strip operates by ensuring that the root section of the wing stalls before the tip. This design feature is critical for maintaining aileron control during a stall event. When the root of the wing experiences a stall first, it causes a decrease in lift at that section, allowing the pilot to retain control over the aircraft by maintaining aileron effectiveness. If the wingtips were to stall before the root, it could lead to undesirable rolling motions and a loss of control since the ailerons, located near the tips, would be ineffective.

By delaying the stall at the tips until the root stalls, the stall strip promotes a more benign stall behavior, thereby making it easier for pilots to manage the aircraft as it approaches and enters a stall condition. This feature is crucial for safety, especially during slow flight and landing phases when the aircraft is more susceptible to stalls.