Hovedfallskjermen

Hovedfallskjermen is the primary parachute used in skydiving and other parachuting disciplines. It is the main canopy responsible for the descent after exiting an aircraft and is distinguished from the reservefallskjermen, which serves as a backup in case of main canopy malfunction or opening failure.

Most hovedfallskjermen are ram-air canopies, typically rectangular or trapezoid in shape, consisting of multiple cells, ripstop nylon fabric, suspension lines, risers, a deployment bag, and a slider. The canopy is packed into a container on the skydiver’s harness and deployed from a deployment system that releases a pilot chute, which pulls the main canopy from its bag. Once fully inflated, the canopy creates lift and provides controllable glide and descent.

Handling and performance depend on canopy design, size, and the skydiver’s weight and experience. The canopy size is chosen to provide a balance between ascent rate, forward speed, and stability. Larger canopies offer more stability and slower descent, which is favored by beginners, while smaller, more agile canopies are used by experienced jumpers seeking higher performance and quicker turns. Steering is achieved with the toggles on the risers to control pitch and roll, with the flare at the end of the descent to reduce vertical speed for landing.

Maintenance and safety are integral to hovedfallskjermen. Regular inspections, proper packing and repacking by qualified personnel, and adherence to manufacturer and aviation authority guidelines are required. Damage, wear, or changes in performance warrant inspection and potential replacement of components, including the canopy, lines, and connectors.