Deploying a reserve parachute in paragliding is a critical yet complex task that involves several technical, environmental and human challenges. This semi-pro ergonomic study is a perfect example of a scientific approach of the problem, leading to technical facts and study-based recommendations for manufacturers as practitioners.
Addressing this emergency situation requires a combination of proper equipment configuration, understanding human factors, practicing deployment procedures, and being aware of environmental conditions. Regular training and maintenance are essential to ensure the reserve system functions effectively when needed.
A great video-documented exemple of safety & ergonomics study, such as performed in the automotive or aircraft industries.
Their study adresses all of these:
1 – Harness and Equipment Configuration Issues
Improper installation of the reserve system can lead to deployment failures. Common problems include:
- Incorrect handle attachment points: attaching the reserve handle to the wrong point can prevent the pins from releasing, hindering deployment.
- Excessive or poorly placed velcro: overuse or misplacement of velcro can obstruct the deployment bag’s release, especially if the velcro has not been regularly opened.
- Routing conflicts: bridle lines routed over speedbar lines or through obstructed paths can prevent the reserve from being thrown effectively.
- Inadequate bridle length: a bridle that’s too short can prevent the deployment bag from being extracted far enough to release the closure pins.
These issues underscore the importance of correct installation and regular maintenance of the reserve system.
2 – Deployment Dynamics and Risks
The process of deploying the reserve involves several dynamic challenges:
- Fouling: a weak or misdirected throw can result in the reserve becoming entangled with the paraglider, especially during rotations like SATs or spirals.
- Bag-lock: if the bridle is too short or the deployment bag is incorrectly oriented, the locking stow may not release, preventing the reserve from deploying.
- Down-planing: if the paraglider is not disabled after reserve deployment, it can dive forward, increasing the descent rate and complicating the landing.
3 – Human Factors and Cognitive Load
In emergency situations, pilots often rely on tactile feedback rather than visual cues to locate the reserve handle. The 2nd part of the study, in the video below, has particularly shown that pilots instinctively search for the handle on their hip, even if it’s located elsewhere, leading to delays in deployment.
Additionally, maneuvers like Spiral Asymmetric Tuck (SAT) or rotation direction can increase cognitive load, making it harder to perform the deployment correctly
View more: the study has since been completed with more paragliding representative scenarios, simulating the rotation happening when the wing collapses, with a more repetitive equipment:
4 – Environmental and Situational Factors
Low-altitude wing failures leave insufficient time for reserve deployment, often resulting in injury or death. Additionally, factors like wind conditions, turbulence, and pilot fatigue can impair the ability to deploy the reserve effectively
5 – Training and Practice Deficiencies
Many pilots lack sufficient training in reserve deployment, leading to hesitation or incorrect actions during emergencies. Regular practice and familiarization with the reserve system are crucial for effective emergency response.
Reach to Dr Matt Wilkes and the full team of the Free Flight Physiology Project.
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