When I just got my "A" certificate of profitioncy (spelling?) and was moved from student to novice skydiver, I rewarded myself with a trip to the USA for the opportunity to jump at higher altitudes than I was used to.
To make a long story short, I tried packing my chute a little differently, to actually try and prevent a malfunction while it opened. (lesson learned) So, at 2200ft AGL, the altitude when I am to pull the pilot chute. I couldn't find the handle. So I attempted a second time. Again, to no avail. By this time I was at about 1500ft AGL. Time to make the decision. PULL THE RESERVE PARACHUTE RIPCORD.
The first thing going through my mind was how I was going to have to pay $60 US to have my recerve repacked. Because I was not certified to do it.
So there I am hanging under my beautiful, freshly opened yellow reserve parachute at 900ft AGL. FOUR SECONDS FROM IMPACT.
The beer went down extra smooth that night.
8 seconds left, better do something quick!
Moderators: sky's the limit, sepia, Sulako, North Shore
8 seconds left, better do something quick!
If riding in a plane is FLYING. Then Riding in a boat is SWIMMING!
- GilletteNorth
- Rank 7
- Posts: 704
- Joined: Sun Apr 15, 2007 1:09 pm
- Location: throw a dart dead center of Saskatchewan
So the potential worth of a human life is $60 US? Makes you think.
Having a standard that pilots lose their licence after making a mistake despite doing no harm to aircraft or passengers means soon you needn't worry about a pilot surplus or pilots offering to fly for free. Where do you get your experience from?