Re-Certification
Airworthiness determination procedures for older and out-of-service parachute equipment. Master Rigger privilege only.
What Is Re-Certification?
Re-certification (also called airworthiness determination) is the process by which a Master Parachute Rigger evaluates older or out-of-service parachute equipment to determine whether it is still safe to use.
Only FAA Master Riggers may re-certify parachute equipment. Senior Riggers may assist but cannot make the final airworthiness determination.
There is no set expiration age for parachute equipment — airworthiness is determined by condition, not calendar age. Equipment that has never been opened may still be airworthy decades later if properly stored.
When Is It Required?
Inspection & Determination Process
Review All Documentation
Gather all available paperwork: manufacturer data card, packing records, repair logs, TSO data sheet, and any service bulletins applicable to the equipment.
Identify the Equipment
Record manufacturer, model, serial number, DOM (date of manufacture), and all component serial numbers. Cross-reference against FAA and manufacturer records.
Check Service Bulletins
Research all applicable manufacturer service bulletins and FAA airworthiness directives. Determine if any mandatory actions have not been complied with.
Visual Inspection — Container
Inspect harness webbing for cuts, abrasion, UV degradation, and chemical contamination. Check all stitching, closing flaps, grommets, and risers.
Visual Inspection — Canopy
Inspect all panels, seams, suspension lines, connector links, and slider. Look for porosity changes, fabric degradation, mildew, rodent damage, and line trim issues.
Porosity Testing
Perform porosity testing on canopy fabric using a calibrated porosity meter. Compare results to manufacturer's published minimum values for that canopy type.
Pull Testing
Perform structural pull tests on suspension lines, risers, and seams as required. Document all force values and compare to manufacturer minimums.
AAD Compatibility
If an AAD is installed, verify it is within its service life and maintenance intervals. Confirm compatibility with the closing loop routing and container.
Make Airworthiness Determination
Based on all findings, the Master Rigger makes a documented determination: Airworthy (return to service), Airworthy with conditions (repairs required first), or Not Airworthy (remove from service).
Document Everything
Complete a written report of all findings, tests performed, results, and your final determination. Attach or update the data card. Sign and date with your Master Rigger certificate number.