What is a "turning stall"?

A turning stall specifically refers to a stall that occurs when an aircraft is in a banked turn. During a turn, the aircraft experiences increased load factor due to the bank angle, which increases the stall speed. The airspeed decreases more quickly than when flying straight, as the aircraft’s angle of attack increases to maintain lift while turning. If the pilot exceeds the critical angle of attack during this maneuver, the wings can stall, leading to a loss of lift and potentially resulting in a spin if not managed properly.

In contrast, a stall occurring during straight flight is unrelated to turning dynamics, and while low airspeed can lead to a stall, it does not specifically describe the unique circumstances of a turning stall. Similarly, aerodynamic drag can contribute to a stall, but it is not the defining characteristic of a turning stall situation. Understanding the dynamics of banked turns and their effect on stall risk is crucial for pilots to maintain control and prevent such situations.