Under what conditions does a stall typically occur?

A stall typically occurs when an aircraft exceeds its critical angle of attack, which is the angle at which the wing can no longer generate sufficient lift to support its weight. This critical angle is usually around 10 to 20 degrees, depending on the specific aircraft design and its aerodynamic characteristics.

In this context, an angle of attack in the range of 15 to 20 degrees is often right at or beyond the critical angle for many aircraft, leading to a stall condition. Pilots must be vigilant to avoid exceeding this angle, particularly during maneuvers that require changes in pitch.

Conditions such as flying at altitude or turning sharply can contribute to factors that affect lift but are not direct causes of a stall. Excessive speed does not directly lead to a stall; instead, it is typically associated with increased lift until the critical angle of attack is reached. Hence, the notion that a stall commonly occurs with an angle of attack within the range of 15 to 20 degrees stands out as the most accurate representation of stall conditions.