Power-On Stalls
Private Pilot ACS · Area VII · Task C · POH/AFM, FAA-H-8083-3
Everything you need to know about Power-On Stalls for your private pilot checkride. Aligned to FAA-S-ACS-6C Task VII-C, covering power-on stalls.
Setup & Recovery §
Simulates departure stall at takeoff or go-around. Configure in takeoff configuration (flaps as specified).
Entry: From slow flight or reduced power, apply full (or takeoff) power while simultaneously establishing an exaggerated climb attitude. Aircraft stalls as critical AoA is exceeded.
Critical: Right rudder is essential throughout entry and recovery. At full power with high AoA, left-turning tendencies (P-factor, torque, spiraling slipstream) are at maximum. Without right rudder, the left wing drops and spin entry is possible.
Recovery: Same sequence — reduce AoA, maintain power, level wings with coordinated controls.
Entry: From slow flight or reduced power, apply full (or takeoff) power while simultaneously establishing an exaggerated climb attitude. Aircraft stalls as critical AoA is exceeded.
Critical: Right rudder is essential throughout entry and recovery. At full power with high AoA, left-turning tendencies (P-factor, torque, spiraling slipstream) are at maximum. Without right rudder, the left wing drops and spin entry is possible.
Recovery: Same sequence — reduce AoA, maintain power, level wings with coordinated controls.
AFH Ch.4; ACS PA.VII.C
ACS Standards & Common Errors §
ACS PA.VII.C standards: Recover promptly at first indication. No secondary stall. No spin entry. Heading ±10°. Positive rate of climb established before any configuration change.
Common errors:
• Insufficient right rudder → left yaw → left wing drops → spin entry
• Recovering too aggressively → secondary stall
• Retracting flaps too quickly at low altitude → sudden lift loss
• Failing to maintain heading during entry or recovery
• Not recognizing the stall at first indication (waiting for full break)
Common errors:
• Insufficient right rudder → left yaw → left wing drops → spin entry
• Recovering too aggressively → secondary stall
• Retracting flaps too quickly at low altitude → sudden lift loss
• Failing to maintain heading during entry or recovery
• Not recognizing the stall at first indication (waiting for full break)
ACS PA.VII.C