In aircraft terminology, what does the dihedral angle refer to?

The dihedral angle is a crucial concept in aviation that describes the upward angle of an aircraft's wings relative to the horizontal plane. This constructive feature is essential for enhancing the aircraft's stability during flight. When the wings are positioned at an upward angle, they create a greater distance between the top of the wings and the fuselage, which contributes to a more stable flying condition. As the aircraft banks during turns, the dihedral effect helps return the aircraft to level flight, enhancing its lateral stability.

Understanding this angle is vital for pilots and engineers because it influences the handling characteristics of the aircraft, particularly in terms of roll stability and responsiveness in turbulence. While other choices refer to different aspects of aircraft design and performance, the upward angle of wings directly relates to the definition of the dihedral angle.