When does the stick shaker activate at altitudes below 20,000 feet?

The activation of the stick shaker is a critical safety feature in many aircraft, designed to alert pilots to an impending stall condition. At altitudes below 20,000 feet, the stick shaker is triggered at an angle of attack (AOA) of 0.75. This threshold is established to provide pilots with an early warning of reduced aerodynamic performance and to encourage them to take corrective action.

When the aircraft approaches this AOA, the system engages the stick shaker to create a tactile warning that is felt through the control yoke. It serves as an important training tool, reminding pilots of the need for awareness of their aircraft's performance and the significance of managing speed and configuration during flight. Understanding the precise angle at which the stick shaker activates is essential for maintaining safe operations, particularly during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing.