Understanding the Stall Speed of Delta Winged Aircraft

Many pilots and aviation enthusiasts wonder about the stall speed of different aircraft designs. Specifically, the delta wing aircraft has gained significant attention due to its unique shape and capabilities. This article will explore the concept of stall speed, specifically for delta winged aircraft in the landing configuration. We will also discuss the definitions and implications of Vso and Vs, and provide some specific examples for a well-known aircraft, the Concorde.

The Concept of Stall Speed

A wing can stall at any airspeed, any attitude, and at any altitude, regardless of its configuration. The critical factor for a wing to stall is exceeded angle of attack, or the critical angle. This phenomenon occurs when the airflow over the wing is disrupted, leading to a loss of lift.

Stall Speed Definitions

To provide a clearer understanding, let's look at the definitions of stall speed as per the FAA's 14 CFR Chapter I, Part 1, §1.2: Vso: The power-off stalling speed with gear and full flaps extended. Vs: The minimum steady flight speed for which the aircraft is still controllable.

Among these, Vso is particularly relevant to pilots in the landing phase of flight. It represents the stalling speed of the aircraft when it is in the landing configuration, which includes the gear and flaps down. This value is crucial for ensuring safe landings and avoiding stall conditions at critical times.

The Case of the Concorde

The Concorde, a renowned supersonic jet with delta wings, serves as an excellent example to illustrate these concepts. According to the FAA data, the Concorde has the following stall speeds: Vs: 160 knots Vso: 125 knots These figures indicate that while the Concorde can maintain control at a lower speed (125 knots) during landing, it must operate above 160 knots for steady flight under all other conditions, such as during takeoff and cruise phases.

Practical Implications

Understanding these concepts is vital for pilots, especially those flying delta wing aircraft. The choice of configuration (gear up, gear down, flaps up, flaps down) significantly affects the stall characteristics and thus the pilot's handling of the aircraft.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stall speed is a critical factor for pilots to consider, particularly in the landing configuration of aircraft equipped with delta wings. Vso, the stall speed with gear and flaps extended, is a specific and crucial value for ensuring safe landings. Understanding the differences between Vs, Vs1, and Vso can greatly enhance a pilot's ability to handle their aircraft in various flight conditions.