What is defined as stall speed?

Stall speed is defined as the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain level flight without stalling. This is a critical concept in aviation, as it is the threshold below which the wings cannot generate enough lift to support the weight of the aircraft. When flying below this speed, the airflow over the wings becomes insufficient, leading to a condition known as a stall, where the aircraft will lose lift and can potentially descend uncontrollably if not managed properly.

Knowing the stall speed is essential for pilots as it helps them to understand the safe operating limits of their aircraft, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff, landing, and maneuvering. Understanding stall speed also informs pilots about the necessary procedures to avoid stalling and how to recover if a stall occurs.

In contrast, typical speed during takeoff is usually higher than stall speed and varies based on aircraft types and configurations, while maximum speed before losing control refers to the aircraft's performance limits rather than its stall characteristics. Also, the effective climb speed relates to a speed that optimizes climb performance, which is generally higher than stall speed.