What can result if the critical angle of attack is exceeded?

When the critical angle of attack is exceeded, the airflow over the wings begins to separate from the wing's upper surface, which leads to a loss of lift. This phenomenon is known as a stall condition. During a stall, the aircraft no longer maintains sufficient lift to counteract its weight, which can result in a significant decrease in performance and control.

In a stall situation, the aircraft can experience pitch down or uncontrollable descent unless the pilot takes corrective action to lower the angle of attack and restore smooth airflow over the wings. Understanding the implications of exceeding the critical angle of attack is crucial for pilots as it directly relates to the safety and handling of the aircraft during flight maneuvers.