Hagen

yes, it's funny:) but it's russian slang for stabilizers:)

Come on, it could happen to not that experienced skydiver and then it could lead to fatality:( And the video is a good expample of right actions in a situation like this.

What: complete canopy destruction When: April, 29 Where: Borodyanka dropzone near Kiev, Ukraine (http://www.paraskuf.com.ua/). Details: It was the third jump of a very experienced skydiver with Velocity 103 ( INSP 401, VE103-001494, 02/2004). The malfunction upon the opening was the following: tearing of the left brake and lines of the right stabilizer. The left stabilizer was torn along its stitch. The second cell was torn, too, with tearing off lines of 1-2 rows. Actually, the canopy just fell to pieces and that provoked awful turning around. The skydiver managed to make fast cut away and landed safely with his reserve chute. Some other details: the loading on the canopy was 2,4. When the skydiver bought the canopy he was told that about 350-400 jumps had been maid with it. Actually, you can see how it happened on video on http://www.paraskuf.com.ua/forum/index.php?showtopic=212. It would be interesting to hear some experienced opinions on what happened and comment on how such situations could be avoided (except of recommendations not to buy used equipment). P.S. I hope that my message is understandable even though I may misuse some skydiving terms. However, I’m going to add some link to pictures showing the cut away canopy on the land so you’ll be able to estimate the damages.

I'm from Ukraine and cannot wait when the winter is over here... lucky are those living in countries with more skydiving friendly climate Meanwhile - since there's nothing to do when it's -8 outdoors (except of skiing but it takes some time to get to the mountains:) - I'm glad to join the forum