## Operations Chapter 4 

## Introduction 

Certificated parachute riggers represent a professional cadre within the parachute community. According to Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 65, section 65.129(f)(1), “No certificated parachute rigger may exercise the privileges of his certificate and type rating unless he understands the current manufacturer’s instructions for the operation involved and has performed duties under his certificate for at least 90 days within the preceding 12 months.” 

Manufacturers of main parachutes have packing techniques that they have developed for their products. Most of them follow established methods in common use. Experience has shown that if the packing techniques required for a specific main are too complex, the market may not receive them favorably. 

Throughout the chapter, each component of the parachute is discussed along with its function and how it applies to the entire assembly. One component can have a significant effect on the performance of another. For example, a pilot chute that is too large may result in too fast of an opening; and a pilot chute that is too small may not be able to overcome a bag lock. 

