What is the main difference between stall speed and landing speed?

Stall speed is defined as the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain controlled flight. It is the point at which the wings can no longer produce sufficient lift to keep the aircraft in the air, making it critical for pilots to adhere to this speed during various phases of flight to avoid an aerodynamic stall.

Landing speed, on the other hand, refers to the approach speed during the landing phase of flight, which typically exceeds the stall speed. This speed is determined by several factors, such as aircraft weight, flap settings, and wind conditions. Landing speed ensures that the aircraft remains safely above stall speed during the entire landing process, allowing for a smooth descent and safe touchdown.

Since stall speed is about maintaining control in the flight envelope, while landing speed is about a safe and controlled descent to the runway, understanding this distinction is key for safe flight operations, particularly during approach and landing phases. Thus, acknowledging that stall speed is the minimum speed for controlled flight and that landing speed is related to the safe approach for landing accurately reflects the concepts of aircraft operation.