When should recovery from an imminent stall be initiated?

Recovery from an imminent stall should be initiated at the first sign of the stall, which typically includes a decrease in controllability, an increase in stall warning systems, or noticeable changes in the aircraft's performance. Recognizing these early signs is crucial because the primary goal is to prevent the stall from fully developing, which can lead to a loss of control.

Initiating recovery at this stage allows the pilot to take corrective action, such as reducing the angle of attack, increasing power, and leveling the wings, to regain control and maintain safe flight. Timeliness is key; by acting promptly when the first signs are detected, pilots can avoid the adverse effects associated with stalls, such as significant altitude loss, high bank angles, or entering a potentially dangerous spin.

In contrast, awaiting a stall warning activation or, worse, waiting until after the aircraft has fully stalled can lead to a situation that is more difficult to recover from and increases the risk of an accident.