Why is the stall progression of a rectangular wing beneficial?

The stall progression of a rectangular wing is beneficial primarily because it improves lateral control. Rectangular wings tend to have a more predictable stall behavior, where the stall begins at the root before progressing toward the tip. This characteristic provides pilots with better control over the aircraft's roll and yaw during stall conditions.

When a wing stalls, the increase in angle of attack can cause a loss of lift. In a rectangular wing, since the stall starts at the root, the outer sections of the wing remain effective for a longer period. This means that the aircraft maintains some degree of control and responsiveness, allowing the pilot to manage the aircraft’s attitude and direction more effectively. Enhanced lateral control is critical, especially in maintaining a level flight during challenging flight situations, as it allows pilots to prevent uncontrollable yaw or roll that can lead to a spin.

While aerodynamic efficiency, forward thrust loss, and recovery from stall are important considerations in aircraft design, the ability for a pilot to maintain lateral control during stall conditions stands out as a significant advantage of rectangular wing designs. This feature directly contributes to the safety and handling characteristics of the aircraft, especially in training and general flight operations.