In a descending turn, which wing will stall first?

In a descending turn, the lower wing will stall first due to an increase in angle of attack and a reduction in airflow over that wing. When the aircraft is in a turn, the wing that is lower (the inside wing) experiences greater load and a higher angle of attack compared to the higher wing.

As the aircraft banks into the turn, the lift vector tilts, increasing the wing's overall angle of attack on the lower wing. Coupled with the descent, the airflow over the lower wing is also disrupted, making it more susceptible to stalling.

Conversely, the higher wing, which is generating less lift and has a lower angle of attack, will be less likely to stall before the lower wing. Thus, in a descending turn, the dynamics of airflow, lift, and angle of attack converge, leading to the lower wing stalling first. Understanding this concept is crucial for pilots, as it underlines the importance of maintaining proper control and attention to wing load when maneuvering the aircraft.