What is likely to occur if an aircraft experiences a significant change in center of pressure?

If an aircraft experiences a significant change in center of pressure, it can lead to undesirable flight characteristics that might result in a loss of control. The center of pressure refers to the point on the wing where the total aerodynamic forces are considered to act. When this point shifts dramatically, it can alter the balance and stability of the aircraft, affecting how it responds to control inputs and potentially leading to a situation where the pilot may struggle to maintain control.

In contrast, while a change in center of pressure could theoretically link to lift changes, the relationship is not necessarily proportional. Changes in the flow over the wings can result in a reduction of lift or other problems rather than a straightforward increase. Furthermore, entering a stall is a specific condition associated with lift falling below the aircraft’s weight, which may not directly correlate with a shift in the center of pressure. The most immediate and critical concern when experiencing a significant change in center of pressure is the potential for loss of control, making that answer the most relevant in this scenario.