What is a critical AOA?
The critical AOA is an aerodynamic constant for a given airfoil in a given configuration. The velocity of the relative wind does not matter; the airfoil will ALWAYS stall when the critical AOA is reached. Please also note that the term “stalling speed” can be misleading, as this speed is often discussed. The exact angle of the critical AOA varies between airplanes, but for a given airfoil is always the same angle. In many light training airplanes it is around 16 degrees.Every wing has a critical AOA, the point at which smooth airflow disrupts, resulting in a loss of lift and a stall. The critical AOA depends on the wing design. For many general aviation aircraft, the critical AOA is in the range of 15-18 degrees.