Automatic Activation Devices
Complete AAD specifications, maintenance intervals, compliance data, and manufacturer documentation.
Important Information — Does the FAA Approve AADs
No Direct TSO for AADs
The Federal Aviation Administration issues TSO approvals (such as TSO-C23) for parachute harness/container systems and reserve canopies, but not for standalone electronic or mechanical AAD units.
Approval via Installation
The FAA approves the installation of an AAD when it is submitted as part of the parachute manufacturer's TSO paperwork and testing, ensuring the device does not interfere with the normal operation of the parachute system.
Manufacturer Lists
Parachute container manufacturers maintain specific authorized lists of compatible AAD makes and models that are approved for installation in their TSO-certified rigs.
Device Comparison Matrix
| Device | Manufacturer | Modes |
|---|---|---|
| Cypres 2 | Airtec (Germany) | Expert / Student / Tandem / Speed |
| Cypres 3 | Airtec (Germany) | Expert / Student / Tandem / Speed |
| Vigil 2+ | AAD (Belgium) | Standard / Tandem / Student |
| M2 (Mars) | MarS a.s. (Czech) | Student / Intermediate / Pro / Canopy Piloting / Tandem |
| Argus | Aviacom (Belgium) | Standard / Novice / Tandem / Swoop |
Service Life & Battery Reference
Vigil (AAD Belgium)
20 years from DOM for the cutter and electronics.
Every 10 years (or within 10 years ± 3 months of the date of manufacture) for units made before Oct 2018; 12 years for units manufactured after October 1, 2018.
Cypres (Airtec)
Service life: 12.5 years from DOM. Maintenance is mandatory at 4 and 8 years after DOM.
Service life: 15.5 years from DOM. Maintenance is voluntary (recommended) at 5 and 10 years after DOM.
M2 (MarS)
15.5 years or 15,000 jumps (whichever comes first).
No replacement needed during its life; designed to last a full 15.5 years.
No mandatory manufacturer servicing; annual user/rigger checks (battery, pressure sensor) are required.
Argus (Aviacom)
Over 12 years from DOM. No longer manufactured.
Two user-replaceable CR123A lithium batteries; replace every repack, every 500 jumps, or when 'Batt Low' / 'Batt Rpl' is displayed.
Mandatory 4-year check. Units not checked within 4 years + 3 months are considered not airworthy.
Critical Rigging Notes
Mandatory Battery Replacement
Cypres 2 requires battery/maintenance every 4 years. Cypres 3 and M2 have no periodic maintenance (* subject to manufacturer updates — always verify current specs).
Cutter Specifications
All pyrotechnic cutters are single-use only. Verify cutter compatibility with reserve closing loop material and diameter per the AAD manufacturer's current specifications.
TSO Compliance
Only AADs with valid TSO-C23d authorization may be installed in TSO-approved systems. Verify current authorization status with manufacturer before installation.