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Is a rescue parachute mandatory for paragliding ?

Is a rescue parachute mandatory for paragliding ?

Paragliding is an exciting aerial activity that attracts many thrill-seekers. However, safety remains of paramount importance in this discipline. One of the questions frequently asked by new pilots is : is a rescue parachute compulsory for paragliding ? In this article, we take a closer look at the importance of the reserve parachute and the regulations governing its use.

RESCUE PARACHUTE: IS IT COMPULSORY FOR PARAGLIDING ?

A rescue parachute is essential to ensure the safety of both pilot and passengers. Although regulations vary from country to country and from paragliding association to paragliding association, in most cases a rescue parachute is compulsory for paragliding. In France, if you're flying alone, a rescue parachute is not mandatory. In fact, you don't have to! You are free to decide whether or not you want to take a rescue parachute with you on your paragliding flight.

The use of a rescue parachute allows you to deal with emergency situations such as uncontrolled collapses, downwind positioning errors leading to a cascade of incidents, or material failure. In the event of a problem, the pilot will pull his rescue parachute to slow the descent and return to the ground at an acceptable sink rate, enabling him to land more safely.

SECOND-HAND RESCUE PARACHUTE : CAN I FLY WITH SECOND-HAND EQUIPMENT ?

When you're new to paragliding, it can be tempting to buy second-hand equipment to save money. However, when it comes to the rescue parachute, caution is called for. Using a second-hand rescue parachute can be risky if the equipment has not been properly maintained, or if its history is unknown.

Before buying a second-hand rescue parachute, it's a good idea to ask the advice of your instructor, for example, or of someone familiar with the subject. A thorough inspection will determine whether the parachute is in good condition. However, it is advisable to contact a paragliding specialist to buy second-hand equipment, or a reputable dealer.

RESCUE PARACHUTE : HOW MANY TIMES AM I ALLOWED TO PULL IT ?

A paragliding rescue parachute is designed for use in emergency situations. Each time the rescue parachute is extracted, it must be folded up and replaced in the container to keep it in perfect working order.

Rescue parachute service life varies according to model and manufacturer. Most paragliding rescue parachutes have a manufacturer's advertised service life of 10 years. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the life of the parachute, and to replace it as soon as it reaches the recommended limit of use.

In conclusion, the rescue parachute is an essential part of paragliding. Although not mandatory in France, its usefulness should not be overlooked. When you consider buying a second-hand rescue parachute, make sure it's fairly recent (we advise against buying rescue parachutes over 5/7 years old) and that all fabric and lines are in good condition.

Ideally, have your parachute inspected by an overhaul shop. Last but not least, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the life of your parachute, and replace it when the time comes, so you can fly with complete peace of mind. Flying a paraglider can be an incredible experience, and by taking the appropriate measures to ensure your safety, you can enjoy this aerial adventure with complete peace of mind.