In the summer of 1998 a USAF C-5 Galaxy stalled on approach to the atoll of Diego Garcia in the middle of the Indian Ocean. A mechanical issue with slat extension resulted in failure of the stick-shaker system. The pilots were not warned of the impending stall, resulting in dramatic roll instability due to negative roll damping.
Regardless of size, certain underlying aerodynamic considerations affect the behavior of all aircraft in a stall. In the case depicted here, angle of attack was reduced just prior to ground impact. This resulted in regaining lateral stability, reducing drag, and allowing for the resulting recovery.
