Chapter 12

Emergency Procedures
This chapter provides emergency procedures for the RA-1 ARAPS. Section 1
provides the emergency procedures applicable to MFF, and Section 2 provides the
emergency procedures for the DBSL configuration.

SECTION 1—MILITARY FREE-FALL CONFIGURATION ONLY

12-1. Most MFF jumpers recognize that this process involves risk, but that risk is not limited to the jump
itself. It also involves boarding an aircraft and riding to exit altitude. While aircraft accidents involving
jumpers are rare, they do occur and are almost always preventable. This section depicts the emergency
procedures that will be used with the RA-1 ARAPS during emergency situations when in the MFF
configuration.

REFRESHER TRAINING
12-2. The conditioned response executed as the correct procedure for a particular emergency is a highly
perishable skill. Refresher training must include performance-oriented training with special emphasis on
emergency procedures and the actions required to respond successfully to any situation. This training must
take place before each MFF airborne operation. The duration of the training should be commensurate with
the time between airborne operations and, at the very least, until each parachutist is confident in his
emergency procedure skills.

EMERGENCY MEASURES
12-3. The procedures established by this publication in response to emergency situations have proven to be
the most successful in both MFF training and tactical environments. Figures 12-1 through 12-5 and
Tables 12-1 through 12-6, pages 12-1 through 12-12 depict the emergency procedures that will be used with
the RA-1 ARAPS during emergency situations.

• Learns the location of emergency exits and how to open them.

• Secures all loose items.
• Wears helmet.
• Fastens seat belt securely.

Figure 12-1. Emergency preparations before takeoff

Table 12-1. Aircraft emergency procedures and signals

Parachutist’s Parachutist’s
Situation Signal Actions in Actions in
Fixed-Wing Aircraft Rotary-Wing Aircraft

Crash Landing  Continuous ringing of  Remains seated until  Follows jumpmaster’s/

During Takeoff alarm bell or verbal aircraft stops, then aircrew’s instructions.
warning by aircrew. exits.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-1

Chapter 12

Table 12-1. Aircraft emergency procedures and signals (continued)

Parachutist’s Parachutist’s
Situation Signal Actions in Actions in
Fixed-Wing Aircraft Rotary-Wing Aircraft

Crash Landing  Six short rings of  If time and altitude  If time and altitude
During Flight alarm bell or verbal permit, jumps. permit, jumps on the
warning by aircrew.  If not, secures seat command of the
 One long ring of belt. jumpmaster.
alarm bell.  Braces for impact.  If not, secures seat belt,
covers head with arms,
and braces for impact.
 Exits the aircraft as soon
as it stops and moves
well away from it.
 Conducts head count.

NOTE: Jumpmaster ensures

all personnel are away from
the wreckage.

NOTE: Parachutists coordinate opening the aircraft exits

with the aircrew.
Crash Landing  Six short rings of  Takes aircraft seats  Prepares for crash
Below 1,000 Feet alarm bell or verbal and fastens seat landing.
AGL warning by aircrew. belts.  Ensures all personnel
 One long ring of  Prepares for crash and jumpers are secured
alarm bell. landing. with seat belts fastened.
 Braces for impact.  Covers head with arms
and braces for impact.
 Exits the aircraft as soon
as it stops and moves
well away from it.
 Conducts head count.
Emergency Bailout  Three short rings of  Prepares for exit.  Exits at the jumpmaster’s
1,000 to 3,000 Feet alarm bell or verbal  Exits at the command.
AGL warning by aircrew. jumpmaster’s  Deploys the reserve
 Green light. command. parachute immediately.
 One long sustained  Deploys the reserve  Attempts to land with the
ring of alarm bell. parachute other jumpers.
immediately.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.

12-2 TC 18-11 30 April 2015


Table 12-1. Aircraft emergency procedures and signals (continued)
Situation Signal
Emergency Bailout  Three short rings of
Above 3,000 Feet alarm bell or verbal
AGL warning by aircrew.
 Green light.
 One long sustained
ring of alarm bell.
Ditching Over Water  Six short rings of alarm
With Insufficient bell.
Drop Altitude.
 Verbal warning by
aircrew.
 One long ring of alarm
bell.
30 April 2015 TC 18-11
Emergency Procedures
Parachutist’s Parachutist’s
Actions in Actions in
Fixed-Wing Aircraft Rotary-Wing Aircraft
 Prepares for exit.  Exits at the
jumpmaster’s
 Exits at the command.
jumpmaster’s
command.  Deploys the main
parachute after
 Deploys the main clearing airspace
parachute after (maximum 5-second
clearing airspace delay).
(maximum 5-second
delay).  Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.
 Prepares for crash  Prepares for crash
landing. landing.
 Ensures all personnel  Ensures all personnel
and jumpers are and jumpers are
secured with seat secured with seat
belts fastened. belts fastened.
 Covers head with  Covers head with
arms and braces for arms and braces for
impact. impact.
 Assists injured  Assists injured
personnel. personnel.
 Exits the aircraft as  Exits the aircraft as
soon as it stops soon as it stops
(inflates flotation (inflates flotation
device if available) device if available)
and swims well away and swims well away
from the aircraft. from the aircraft.
 Conducts head count.  Conducts head count.
WARNING
Rotary-wing aircraft may
roll after crash landing.
12-3
Chapter 12

Table 12-2. In-flight emergency procedures

Situation Jumpmaster/Jumper Responsibility

Main Pilot Chute Deploys With  Shouts “PILOT CHUTE” and contains the pilot
Ramp and Doors Closed chute and canopy in the aircraft.
 Moves the jumper to the front of the plane.
 Disconnects the RESERVE STATIC LINE and cuts
away from the main parachute.
 Jumper keeps the parachute system on, sits in the
seat, and secures his seat belt.
NOTE: In an aircraft emergency, the jumper can still exit
the aircraft on his reserve.
Main Pilot Chute Deploys With  Same as above; the pilot chute is contained.
Ramp and Doors Open  If able, close ramp or doors.

WARNING
If parachutist is standing in the vicinity of an open door or ramp and he experiences a
premature deployment, he tries to contain it; if any portion of the parachute goes out of
the aircraft, he exits immediately to minimize or avoid serious injury.

Reserve Pilot Chute Deploys With
Ramp and Doors Closed
Reserve Pilot Chute Deploys With
Ramp and Doors Open
 Shouts “PILOT CHUTE” and contains pilot chute.
 Moves the jumper to the front of the plane.
 Removes the parachute system from the jumper.
 Jumper sits in the seat and fastens his seat belt.
 Jumper lands with the aircraft.
 Same as above; the pilot chute is contained.

WARNING
If parachutist is standing in the vicinity of an open door or ramp and he experiences a
premature deployment, he tries to contain it; if any portion of the parachute goes out of
the aircraft, he exits immediately to minimize or avoid serious injury.

Altimeter Failure  Gets the attention of the jumpmaster.

 Replaces the altimeter with the spare in the
jumpmaster bag or from the waistband of the
assistant jumpmaster.
 If an altimeter is not available, the jumper will be
moved to the front of the aircraft, seated, with seat
belt fastened.
NOTE: The jumper can exit the aircraft in an emergency
situation.
Equipment Malfunctions  Gets the attention of the jumpmaster.
 The jumpmaster will correct the malfunction or
make the determination for the jumper to land with
the aircraft.

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Table 12-3. Emergencies in free-fall
Emergency
Collision on Exit
Instability in Free-Fall:
Spinning
Instability in Free-Fall:
Tumbling
Instability in Free-Fall:
Entering a cloud or loss of
visibility
Rucksack Shifts
Premature Opening: Main
Parachute
Premature Opening: Reserve
Parachute
Collision Avoidance During
Free-Fall
Lost or Broken Altimeter
Lost or Broken Goggles
16 October 2015
Emergency Procedures
Parachutist’s Procedures
 Maintains his arch, gently pushes off (with an open hand) the
parachutist, regains his stability, checks his altimeter, checks the
ripcords, and continues the free-fall as planned.
NOTE: The parachutist does not grab anything.
 Counters, relaxes, arches, checks his hands and feet, and maintains
altitude awareness.
 If unable to gain control of spin, waves off and pulls.
 Arches, keeps his head up, checks his hands and feet, and maintains
altitude awareness.
 If unable to maintain altitude awareness and control tumbling, waves
off and pulls.
 Stops all movement and returns to a stable, relaxed arch.
 Maintains altitude awareness.
 Pulls at the prescribed altitude even if he is still in the cloud.
 Counters any turns by turning in the opposite direction.
NOTE: If the rucksack strap moves below his knee, parachutist makes
one attempt to replace it while maintaining stability. If unsuccessful, he
relaxes and attempts to fly. If the parachutist loses altitude awareness
and is unable to gain control, he will wave off and pull.
 Determined by the 3-ring assembly, deployment bag, and pilot chute.
 Conducts a controllability check.
 Determined by NO 3-ring assembly, NO deployment bag, and pilot
chute.
 Conducts postopening procedures.
 Lower jumper has the right-of-way.
 Never gets over the top of another jumper.
 Uses forward glide, back slide, or side slide to get off a jumper’s
back.
 Immediately clears airspace, waves off, and pulls.
 Maintains altitude awareness.
 Maintains his arch.
 Reaches up with both hands symmetrically (keeping elbows high),
finds and replaces the goggles.
 If unable to find the goggles, squints his eyes and maintains altitude
awareness.
 If unable to maintain altitude awareness, waves off and pulls.
TC 18-11, C1 12-5
Chapter 12

Table 12-4. Cutaway procedures

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Total Malfunction: Occurs when the
parachutist fails to pull the ripcord or after
pulling the ripcord the canopy remains in the
container assembly.
Partial Malfunction: Occurs when the
container assembly opens but the canopy
does not fully or properly deploy.
NOTE: Total and partial malfunctions that require
immediate cutaway procedures for the RA-1 during
MFF or DBSL operations are conducted using the
same procedure.
 Throws away the main ripcord.
 Counters with the left hand.
 Looks to identify the red cutaway pillow on the right
main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grabs the red cutaway pillow with the right hand.
 Pulls the red cutaway pillow to a full-arm extension.
 Throws away the red cutaway pillow.
 Counters with the right hand.
 Looks to identify the reserve ripcord handle on the
left main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grabs the reserve ripcord handle with the left hand.
 Pulls the reserve ripcord handle to a full-arm
extension.
 Throws away the reserve ripcord handle.
 Raises right shoulder to ensure the reserve pilot
chute has launched.

 Upon opening, hands go to rear risers.

 Clears airspace. Turns right to avoid collision, unless left is closer.
 Releases the brakes and gains control of the canopy; if controllability is questionable, performs a
controllability check.
 Orients himself to the drop zone.
 Locates other jumpers and achieves separation.
 Maintains altitude awareness.
 Checks rate of descent with other parachutists.
 Activates the strobe light, as required.

NOTE: If the malfunction cannot be resolved and if the canopy is uncontrollable, the decision to cut away
must be made by 2,500 feet above ground level (AGL) and cutaway performed by 2,000 feet AGL.
Jumpers must not initiate cutaway procedures below 1,000 feet AGL. If the malfunction cannot be resolved
and cutaway procedures have not been initiated by 1,000 feet AGL, the jumper must immediately deploy
his reserve parachute.

Figure 12-2. Parachutist postopening procedures

 Releases the brakes.

 Looks left, clears airspace, and turns left 90 degrees.
 Looks right, clears airspace, and turns right 90 degrees.
 Determines the stall point.

NOTE: If the canopy requires more than 50-percent opposite toggle input to counter a turn, the canopy is
uncontrollable. If the canopy stalls before 50-percent brake setting, the canopy is uncontrollable.
NOTE: If the canopy is uncontrollable, parachutist performs cutaway procedures.

Figure 12-3. Controllability check

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 Emergency Procedures

Table 12-5. Malfunction procedures

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Floating Ripcord or Unable to See Ripcord  Arch, look.

 If unable to see the ripcord or if it is floating, locates
the cable housing on his right shoulder with his
right hand.
 Traces the cable housing down to where the
ripcord cable protrudes out.
 Makes a circle with his index finger and thumb and
pulls to full-arm extension.
 Makes one attempt; if unsuccessful, performs
cutaway procedures.

WARNING
Parachutist makes no more than two attempts to locate the ripcord (the initial attempt is
the first attempt).

Hard Pull  If the pull is unsuccessful, comes across with the

left hand in a punching motion and pushes the right
hand and ripcord out.
 If still unsuccessful, performs cutaway procedures.
Pack Closure  Raises right shoulder to disrupt the partial vacuum
while continuing to look straight down.
 If main parachute does not deploy, performs
cutaway procedures.
Pilot Chute Hesitation  Raises right shoulder to disrupt the partial vacuum
while continuing to look straight down to clear the
burble.
 If main parachute does not deploy, performs
cutaway procedures.
Horseshoe  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.
 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
Bag Lock  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.
 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
Line Over .
A line over occurs when one or more cross lines  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.
are trapped across the top of the canopy,
 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
deforming its shape. Hard opening may be a
precursor. Canopy may spin, stall, or act erratically.
Streamer/Snivel  Reaches up and releases the brakes.
 Pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position for
3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to 50-percent brake setting.
 If the malfunction is not clear, makes one more
attempt to pull the toggles down to full-brakes
position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 If the malfunction still has not cleared, performs
cutaway procedures.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-7

Chapter 12

Table 12-5. Malfunction procedures (continued)

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Hung Slider  Reaches up and releases the brakes.

 Pulls the toggles down to the full-brakes position for
3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to the 50-percent brake setting.
 If the slider did not come down, pulls the toggles
down to full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets the toggles all the way up slowly.
 If the slider came down below the cascade point on
the lines, performs controllability check and
continues to attempt to get the slider down,
maintaining air awareness.
 If the slider did not come down below the cascade
point on the lines, after two attempts performs
cutaway procedures.
Closed End Cells  Reaches up and releases the brakes.
 Pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position for
3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to 50-percent brake setting.
 If the end cell did not inflate, pulls the toggles down
to full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets the toggles all the way up quickly.
 If the end cells have not inflated, performs a
controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Pilot Chute Over the Nose  Performs postopening procedures.
 Performs a stall and recovery in an attempt to sling
the pilot chute to the rear.
 If the pilot chute did not go to the rear of the
canopy, performs a controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Premature Brake Release  Immediately releases the opposite toggle/brake.
 Performs postopening procedures.
Broken Control Lines  Releases the brakes and steers with the remaining
control line and rear riser.
 Continues the postopening procedures.
 At a safe altitude, determines the stall point with the
rear risers.
NOTE: Jumper lands using the rear risers; he DOES
NOT land with one toggle and one riser.

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 Emergency Procedures

Table 12-5. Malfunction procedures (continued)

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Broken Lines (A, B, C, D)  Determines which and how many lines are broken.
 Performs canopy controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.

Line Twists  Reaches up with both hands and grabs the risers,
thumbs down.
 Pulls hands apart and kicks in a bicycle motion.
 Maintains altitude awareness.
 If still twisted by 2,500 feet above ground level,
executes cutaway procedures.
NOTE: Jumper DOES NOT release the brakes until all
the twists are out.

Holes and Tears (During Postopening  If the hole or tear is in the lower skin of the canopy,
Procedures) performs a controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
 If the hole or tear is in the top skin of the canopy,
immediately performs cutaway procedures.

Tension Knots (During Postopening  If a tension knot is noticed in the lines, reaches up
Procedures) and grabs the affected line group and pulls it down
to his chest; releases the lines in a snapping
motion in an attempt to clear the knot.
 Repeats only twice.
 If it fails to clear, performs controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.

Dual Canopies:  If brakes have not been released, leaves them

 Main inflated with reserve deployed
but not inflated or is still in the
deployment bag.
 Both the main and reserve canopies
are deployed and inflated.
stowed.
 If brakes have been released, lets the toggles all
the way up.
 Slowly pulls the reserve in and places it between
his legs.
 Is prepared to perform cutaway procedures should
the reserve inflate.
NOTE: If the reserve starts to inflate, jumper waits until it
is above shoulder level to perform cutaway procedures.

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Chapter 12

Table 12-5. Malfunction procedures (continued)

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Dual Canopies (continued)  First, determines if the canopies are entangled.

 If the canopies are not entangled, separates the
canopies and performs cutaway procedures.
 If the canopies are entangled or unsure whether
they are or not, assumes they are.
 The canopies will be in one of three configurations:
 Biplane, one behind the other.
 Side by side.
 Down plane.
 The goal is to keep the canopies together; to do
this, steers one canopy with the rear risers and
turns that canopy into the other one.
 Applies minimal input to the canopy to land into the
wind safely.
NOTE: Jumper DOES NOT release his brakes in a
dual canopy situation.

NOTE: There is no special emergency procedure associated with the use of night vision goggles during military free-fall
operations. If a horseshoe malfunction occurs, the jumper should make no attempt to clear the malfunction and should
immediately execute cutaway procedures.

Table 12-6. Canopy entanglement procedures

Situation Higher Parachutist Lower Parachutist

Lower parachutist is entangled
with higher parachutist, and
higher parachutist has a good
canopy.
Above 2,000 feet above ground
level (AGL).
 Attempts to clear off the lower  If canopy cannot be cleared,
canopy. checks the altitude.
 Above 2,000 feet AGL,
disconnects RESERVE STATIC
LINE and performs cutaway
procedures.
NOTE: If lower canopy is cleared, it should reinflate in 150 to 200 feet.

1,000 to 2,000 feet AGL.
Below 1,000 feet AGL.
 Makes every effort to control
lower canopy.
 Must be prepared to do a
parachute landing fall.
 Makes every effort to maintain
control of lower canopy.
 Must be prepared to do a
parachute landing fall.
NOTE: The higher parachutist should fly the final approach and land with
full brakes.
 Performs cutaway procedures.
OR
 Jettisons equipment.
 Lands with higher parachutist.
 Must be prepared to do a
parachute landing fall.
 Jettisons equipment.
 Lands with higher parachutist.
 Must be prepared to do a
parachute landing fall.

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Table 12-6. Canopy entanglement procedures (continued)
Situation
Both parachutists are
entangled, and neither has a
good canopy.
At any altitude.
Trees
 Avoids trees if possible.
 Attempts to land between
smaller trees.
 Does not lower
equipment; jettisons if it
was lowered.
 Turns canopy into wind.
 Brakes as needed
(50-percent or more
braking position) to
achieve vertical descent
through the trees.
 Just prior to feet
contacting tree (limbs)
rotate hands and
forearms up to protect
face.
 Prepares for a parachute
landing fall.
 If suspended, signals for
assistance.
NOTE: Goggles and oxygen mask
provide additional face and eye
protection.
Figure 12-4. Parachutist emergency landing procedures
30 April 2015
Emergency Procedures
Higher Parachutist Lower Parachutist
 Gets clear of entangled lines  Cuts away after the higher
and cuts away (altitude parachutist (altitude permitting).
permitting).
DANGER
The higher parachutist may be fatally engulfed in the
canopies if the lower parachutist performs a cutaway first.
 If still unsuccessful at 1,000 feet, both jumpers must deploy reserve
parachutes in an attempt to slow the descent.
 If only one reserve parachute deploys, the parachutist with the good
reserve must bring the other parachutist to the ground.
 If both reserves deploy, parachutists cut away from the entanglement.
NOTE: Altitude awareness and communication between the parachutists
are critical in successful disengagement.
Wires Water
 Avoids wires at all costs,  Avoids water if possible.
even if a downwind  Jettisons oxygen mask
landing is required. and equipment.
 Throws away ripcord.  Unhooks reserve static
 Turns off oxygen (if time line.
and altitude permit).  Unfastens chest strap
 Slows canopy down. and waistband.
 Streamlines body while  Inflates flotation device, if
passing through the wires. available.
 If entangled, remains  Turns canopy into the
motionless until power is wind.
disconnected.  Uses brakes to slow
 Prepares to do a airspeed.
parachute landing fall  After entering water,
after passing through the releases leg straps (as
wires. feet contact the water)
 If the parachute is and swims free of the
entangled in the wires and harness and upstream
contact with the ground is from the canopy.
made, cuts away from the  If being dragged in the
main chute immediately water, cuts away the
and moves away. main canopy.
NOTE: If time and altitude permit,  If trapped under the
parachutist unhooks the reserve canopy, follows a seam
static line and jettisons equipment. to the edge.
 Signals for assistance
using emergency
devices.
NOTE: On entering water,
parachutist must be prepared for a
normal landing or a parachute
landing fall.
TC 18-11 12-11
Chapter 12

 After landing, releases one toggle and pivots in direction of retained toggle.
 Pulls the toggle hand over hand until either the canopy collapses or he has canopy fabric in hand.
 Attempts to run behind the canopy or downwind of the canopy.
 If unable to recover from a drag, ensures the RESERVE STATIC LINE has been disconnected and
pulls the main release ripcord (red cutaway pillow) to release the main canopy.

Figure 12-5. High-wind landing procedures

ACTIONS FOR DUST DEVILS AND TURBULENT AIR

12-4. Parachutists should stay alert under canopy for signs of swirling or erratic wind conditions. The drop
zone safety officer may use red smoke or flares to warn of visible turbulence, such as dust devils.
Parachutists avoid turbulence at all costs by maneuvering away under canopy. If the parachutist is unable to
avoid the turbulence, he should maintain full flight and remove all slack from the brake lines to prepare for
a possible canopy collapse. If the canopy begins to collapse, the parachutist should quickly conduct a 12- to
24-inch strike on the toggles to prevent collapse. Depending on the altitude, the parachutist should
reattempt this procedure until the canopy reinflates or landing is imminent. As the parachutist approaches
the ground, he should flare the canopy fully and be prepared to conduct a parachute landing fall.
12-5. If the parachutist lands and is overtaken by a dust devil, he should—
 Try to gather up the canopy.
 Lay down on top of the canopy.
 If unable to control the canopy, disconnect the RESERVE STATIC LINE and cut away.

SECTION 2—DOUBLE-BAG STATIC LINE CONFIGURATION ONLY

12-6. DBSL operations are inherently dangerous. Emergencies may occur before or during takeoff, during
flight, when exiting the aircraft, or during canopy descent. Proper preparation and responsible judgment
greatly reduce the probability of encountering an emergency situation, but even with the most careful
precautions emergencies may still occur from time to time. DBSL airborne operations can be made safer by
always anticipating and being prepared to respond to the types of emergencies which may arise. Failure to
effectively deal with an emergency situation during a DBSL airborne operations would be one of the
greatest causes of fatal incidents. Safety considerations require that each parachutist be able to recognize an
emergency situation and react accordingly. Any departure from these emergency procedures may interfere
with the parachutist’s conditioned response. This action can lead to a delay at a critical time with the
potential of causing injury or death. Safety results from reducing risks by evaluating the risk factors of the
airborne operation, knowing your personal limitations, and by acquiring accurate knowledge of everything
to do with the airborne operation. This publication strongly recommends that all parachutists follow these
established procedures.

REFRESHER TRAINING
12-7. The conditioned response executed as the correct procedure for a particular emergency is a highly
perishable skill. Refresher training must include performance-oriented training with special emphasis on
emergency procedures and the actions required to respond successfully to any situation. This training must
take place before each airborne operation. The duration of the training should be commensurate with the
time between airborne operations and, at the very least, until each parachutist is confident in his emergency
procedure skills.

AIRCRAFT EMERGENCIES
12-8. The procedures established by this publication in response to emergency situations have proven to be
the most successful in both DBSL training and tactical environments. Figures 12-6 through 12-9 and
Tables 12-7 through 12-12, pages 12-13 through 12-20, depict the emergency procedures that will be used
with the ARAPS during emergency situations in the DBSL configuration.

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 Emergency Procedures

12-9. Although 98 percent of airborne emergencies take place after the jumper has exited the aircraft, there
are a few emergencies that can take place aboard the aircraft while it is in-flight, to include take-off and
landing. It is imperative that you keep your eyes on the jumpmaster at all times while aboard an aircraft.
Parachutists should learn the locations of emergency exits and how to open them. The parachutist must
secure all loose items that could be tossed around and injure the parachutists during the operation.
Table 12-7. In-flight emergency procedures and signals

Parachutist’s Actions Parachutists Actions in

Situation Signal
in Fixed-Wing Aircraft Rotary-Wing Aircraft

Crash Landing  Continuous ringing of  Prepares for crash  Follows aircrew

During Takeoff alarm bell or verbal landing.
warning by aircrew or  Braces for impact.
jumpmaster.
 Remains seated until
aircraft stops, then
exits.
Crash Landing  Six short rings of  Takes aircraft seats
Below 1,000 feet alarm bell or verbal and fastens seat
AGL warning by aircrew. belts.
 One long ring of  Prepares for crash
alarm bell. landing.
 Braces for impact.
Emergency Bailout:  Three short rings of  Prepares for exit.
1,000 to 3,000 feet AGL alarm bell or verbal  Exits at the
warning by aircrew. jumpmaster’s
 Green light. command.
 One long sustained  Deploys the reserve
ring of alarm bell.
parachute
immediately.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.
Emergency Bailout:  Three short rings of  Prepares for exit.
Above 3,000 feet AGL alarm bell or verbal  Hooks up universal
warning by aircrew. static line if time
 Green light. permits.
 One long sustained  Exits at the
ring of alarm bell. jumpmaster’s
command.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.
instructions.
 Pulls legs inside
aircraft.
 Remains in position.
 Covers head with
arms.
 Clears the aircraft as
soon as it stops and
moves well away from
it in the direction the
jumpmaster indicates.
NOTE: Jumpmaster
gives instruction on
exiting and direction of
movement and ensures
all personnel are away
from the wreckage.
 Takes aircraft seats
and fastens seat
belts.
 Prepares for crash
landing.
 Exits at the
jumpmaster’s
command.
 Deploys the reserve
parachute
immediately.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.
 Exits at the
jumpmaster’s
command.
 Hooks up universal
static line if time
permits.
 Attempts to land with
the other jumpers.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-13

Chapter 12

Table 12-7. In-flight emergency procedures and signals (continued)

Parachutist’s Actions Parachutists Actions in

Situation Signal
in Fixed-Wing Aircraft Rotary-Wing Aircraft

Ditching Over Water  Six short rings of  Remains seated.
With Insufficient Drop alarm bell.  Secures seat belt.
Altitude  Verbal warning by  Checks and locates
aircrew. flotation devices.
 One long ring of  Covers head with
alarm bell. arms.
 Releases seat belt.
 Exits aircraft and
inflates flotation
devices.
 Pulls legs inside
aircraft.
 Checks and locates
flotation devices.
 Remains in position.
 Covers head with
arms.
 Exits aircraft and
inflates flotation
devices.

Table 12-8. In-flight emergency procedures

Situation Jumpmaster/Jumper Responsibility

Main Container Opens With  Shouts “PILOT CHUTE” and contains the
Ramp and Doors Closed deployment bag.
 Moves the jumper to the front of the plane.
 Disconnects the RESERVE STATIC LINE and
cuts away from the main parachute.
 Jumper keeps the parachute system on, sits in
the seat, and secures his seat belt.
Main Container Opens With  Same as above; deployment bag is contained.
Ramp or Door Open
Reserve Pilot Chute Deploys With Ramp and NOTE: In an aircraft emergency, the jumper can still
Doors Closed exit the aircraft on his reserve.
 Shouts “PILOT CHUTE” and contains pilot
chute.
 Moves the jumper to the front of the plane.
 Removes the parachute system from the jumper.
 Jumper sits in the seat and fastens his seat belt.
 Jumper lands with the aircraft.
Reserve Pilot Chute Deploys With Ramp or Door  Same as above; the pilot chute is contained.
Open

WARNING
If parachutist is standing in the vicinity of an open door or ramp and he experiences a
premature deployment, he tries to contain it; if any portion of the parachute goes out of
the aircraft, he exits immediately to minimize or avoid serious injury.

Altimeter Failure  Gets the attention of the jumpmaster.

 Replaces the altimeter with the spare in the
jumpmaster bag or from the waistband of the
assistant jumpmaster. If an altimeter is not
available, the jumper will be moved to the front of
the aircraft, seated, with seat belt fastened.
NOTE: The jumper can exit the aircraft in an
emergency situation.

12-14 TC 18-11 30 April 2015


Table 12-8. In-flight emergency procedures (continued)
Situation
Equipment Malfunctions
Table 12-9. Emergency procedures during exit
Emergency
Broken Static Line
Broken Anchor Line Cable
Failure to Hook Up
Jumper In Tow By Static
Line
Jumper in Tow by
Equipment.
Lost or Altimeter Failure
Lost or Broken Goggles
Reserve Deploys on Exit
16 October 2015
Emergency Procedures
Jumpmaster/Jumper Responsibility
 Gets the attention of the jumpmaster.
NOTE: The jumpmaster will correct the malfunction or
make the determination for the jumper to land with the
aircraft.
Parachutist’s Procedures
 Maintains good double-bag static line (DBSL) position after a 6-second
count.
 Verifies that there is no main parachute deployment.
 Immediately executes cutaway procedures.
 Maintains good DBSL position after a 6-second count.
 Verifies that there is no main parachute deployment.
 Immediately executes cutaway procedures.
 Maintains good DBSL position after a 6-second count.
 Verifies that there is no main parachute deployment.
 Immediately executes cutaway procedures.
Conscious Jumper: Maintain tight body position. Jumpmaster will cut static
line. As the jumper feels himself falling free, he will start his 6-second count
and attempt to gain a DBSL exit position. Jumper immediately executes
cutaway procedures.
Unconscious Jumper: Jumpmaster will attempt to retrieve jumper into
aircraft using retrieval system.
NOTES:
1. If you are being towed from a rotary-wing aircraft, maintain a good, tight
body position and protect your ripcord handle. The aircraft will slowly
descend to the drop zone and come to a hover; the jumpmaster will free
you from the aircraft.
2. For combat operations or areas the rotary-wing aircraft cannot descend,
the jumpmaster may cut the static line. This will be briefed prior to the
airborne operation.
NOTE: Regardless of whether you are conscious or unconscious, the
jumpmaster will attempt to free or cut your equipment free and your main
parachute will deploy.
 Maintains tight body position.
 As the jumper feels himself falling free, he starts his 6-second count,
maintaining a good DBSL position.
 Maintains altitude awareness on descent.
 Checks rate of descent with other parachutists.
 Maintains a good DBSL position.
 After canopy deploys and jumper has control, replaces goggles over eyes.
 Follows procedures for dual deployment, Table 12-11 (Malfunction
Procedures).
TC 18-11, C1 12-15
Chapter 12

Table 12-10. Cutaway procedures

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Total Malfunction: Occurs when the canopy
remains in the container assembly after the static
line has deployed.
Partial Malfunction: Occurs when the container
assembly opens but the canopy does not fully or
properly deploy.
NOTE: Total and partial malfunctions that require
immediate cutaway procedures for the RA-1 during MFF
or DBSL operations are conducted using the same
procedure.
 Counters with the left hand.
 Looks to identify the red cutaway pillow on the
right main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grabs the red cutaway pillow with the right
hand.
 Pulls the red cutaway pillow to a full-arm
extension.
 Throws away the red cutaway pillow.
 Counters with the right hand.
 Looks to identify the reserve ripcord handle on
the left main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grabs the reserve ripcord handle with the left
hand.
 Pulls the reserve ripcord handle to a full-arm
extension.
 Throws away the reserve ripcord handle.
 Raises right shoulder to ensure the reserve pilot
chute has launched.

 Upon opening, hands go to rear risers.

 Clears airspace. Turns right to avoid collision, unless left is closer.
 Releases the brakes and gains control of the canopy; if controllability is questionable, performs a
controllability check.
 Orients himself to the drop zone.
 Locates other jumpers and achieves separation.
 Maintains altitude awareness.

 Checks rate of descent with other parachutists.

 Activates the strobe light, as required.
NOTE: If the malfunction cannot be resolved and if the canopy is uncontrollable, the decision to cut away
must be made by 2,500 feet above ground level (AGL) and cutaway performed by 2,000 feet AGL. Jumpers
must not initiate cutaway procedures below 1,000 feet AGL. If the malfunction cannot be resolved and
cutaway procedures have not been initiated by 1,000 feet AGL, the jumper must immediately deploy his
reserve parachute.

Figure 12-6. Parachutist postopening procedures

 Releases the brakes.

 Looks left, clears airspace, and turns left 90 degrees.
 Looks right, clears airspace, and turns right 90 degrees.
 Determines the flare point.
NOTE: If the canopy requires more than 50-percent opposite toggle input to counter a turn, the canopy is
uncontrollable. If the canopy stalls before 50-percent brake setting, the canopy is uncontrollable.
NOTE: If the canopy is uncontrollable, parachutist performs cutaway procedures for partial malfunction.

Figure 12-7. Controllability check

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 Emergency Procedures

Table 12-11. Malfunction procedures

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Horseshoe  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.

 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
Bag Lock  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.
 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
Line Over  Performs cutaway procedures immediately.
 Makes no attempt to clear this malfunction.
Streamer/Snivel  Reaches up and releases the brakes.
 Pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to 50-percent brake setting.
 If the malfunction is not clear, makes one more attempt to pull the toggles
down to full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 If the malfunction still has not cleared, performs cutaway procedures.
Hung Slider  Reaches up and releases the brakes.
 Pulls the toggles down to the full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to the 50-percent brake setting.
 If the slider did not come down, pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position
for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets the toggles all the way up slowly.
 If the slider did not come down below the cascade point on the lines after
two attempts, performs cutaway procedures.
 If the slider came down below the cascade point on the lines, performs
controllability check and continues to attempt to get the slider down,
maintaining air awareness.
Closed End Cells  Reaches up and releases the brakes.
 Pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position for 3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets up slowly to 50-percent brake setting.
 If the end cell did not inflate, pulls the toggles down to full-brakes position for
3 to 4 seconds.
 Lets the toggles all the way up slowly.
 If the end cells have not inflated, performs a controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Drogue Pilot Chute  Performs postopening procedures.
Over the Nose  Performs a stall and recovery in an attempt to sling the drogue pilot chute to
the rear.
 If the drogue pilot chute did not go to the rear of the canopy, performs a
controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Premature Brake  Immediately releases the opposite toggle/brake.
Release  Performs postopening procedures.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-17

Chapter 12

Table 12-11. Malfunction procedures (continued)

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Broken Control  Releases the brakes and steers with the remaining control line and rear
Lines riser.
 Continues the postopening procedures.
 At a safe altitude, determines the stall point with the rear risers.
NOTES:
1. Jumper lands using the rear risers; he DOES NOT land with one toggle and one
riser.
2. Utilizing rear risers may fatigue arms.
Broken Lines (A, B,  Determines which and how many lines are broken.
C, D)  Performs canopy controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures
 If an A line or two or more lines are broken, cutaway the main parachute
immediately.
Line Twists  Reaches up with both hands and grabs the risers, thumbs down.
 Pulls hands apart and kicks in a bicycle motion.
 Maintains altitude awareness.
 Check rate of descent, if falling significantly faster or the slider is still above
cascades cutaway by 2,500 feet above ground level (AGL).
NOTE: Jumper DOES NOT release the brakes until all the twists are out.
Holes and Tears  If the hole or tear is in the lower skin of the canopy, performs a controllability
(During check.
Postopening  If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Procedures)
 If the hole or tear is in the top skin of the canopy, immediately performs
cutaway procedures.
Tension Knots  If a tension knot is noticed in the lines, reaches up and grabs the affected
(During line group and pulls it down to his chest; releases the lines in a snapping
Postopening motion in an attempt to clear the knot.
Procedures)  Repeats only twice.
 If it fails to clear, performs controllability check.
 If uncontrollable, executes cutaway procedures.
Dual Canopies:  If brakes have not been released, leaves them stowed.
 Main  If brakes have been released, lets the toggles all the way up.
inflated  Slowly pulls the reserve in and places it between his legs.
with
 Is prepared to perform cutaway procedures should the reserve inflate.
reserve
deployed NOTE: If the reserve starts to inflate, jumper waits until it is above shoulder level to
but not perform cutaway procedures.
inflated or  First, determines if the canopies are entangled.
is still in the  If the canopies are not entangled, separates the canopies and performs
deployment cutaway procedures.
bag.
 If the canopies are entangled or unsure whether they are or not, assumes
they are.
 Both the  The canopies will be in one of three configurations:
main and
 Biplane, one behind the other.
reserve
canopies  Side by side.
are  Down plane.
deployed  The goal is to keep the canopies together; to do this, steers one canopy with
and the rear risers and turns that canopy into the other one.
inflated.  Applies minimal input to the canopy to land into the wind safely.
NOTE: Jumper DOES NOT release his brakes in a dual canopy situation.

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 Emergency Procedures

Table 12-11. Malfunction procedures (continued)

Malfunction Parachutist’s Procedures

Entering a Cloud  Maintain heading and pick up reference points.

 Maintain air awareness and altitude.
 Use 50-percent brakes.
Combat Equipment  Jumper maintains altitude awareness.
will not lower  Faces into the wind and makes one attempt at 500 feet AGL to free the
equipment by kicking his legs. If still unable to free the equipment by
200 feet AGL, the jumper will land with his equipment and must be prepared
to conduct a parachute landing fall.
 The jumper flies his canopy and flares as normal (during daylight) or at full
brakes (during night hours) into the wind. The jumper should be prepared to
conduct a parachute landing fall.
NOTE: There is no special emergency procedure associated with the use of night vision goggles during military free-fall
operations. If a horseshoe malfunction occurs, the jumper should make no attempt to clear the malfunction and should
immediately execute cutaway procedures.

Table 12-12. Canopy entanglement procedures

Situation Higher Parachutist Lower Parachutist
Above 2,000 feet above ground  Attempts to clear off  If canopy cannot be cleared,
level (AGL) the lower canopy. checks the altitude.
Lower parachutist is entangled  Above 2,000 feet AGL,
with higher parachutist, and disconnects reserve static
higher parachutist has a good line and performs cutaway
canopy procedures.
NOTE: If lower canopy is cleared, it
should reinflate in 150 to 200 feet.
1,000 to 2,000 feet AGL  Makes every effort to  Performs cutaway
control lower canopy. procedures.
 Is prepared to conduct OR
a parachute landing  Jettisons equipment.
fall.  Lands with higher
parachutist.
 Is prepared to conduct a
parachute landing fall.
Below 1,000 feet AGL  Makes every effort to  Jettisons equipment.
maintain control of  Lands with higher
lower canopy. parachutist.
 Is prepared to conduct  Is prepared to conduct a
a parachute landing parachute landing fall.
fall.
NOTE: The higher parachutist
should fly the final approach and
land with full brakes.
Both parachutists are  Gets clear of entangled  Cuts away after the higher
entangled and neither has a lines and cuts away parachutist (altitude
good canopy (altitude permitting). permitting).
At any altitude
DANGER
The higher parachutist may be fatally engulfed in the canopies if the lower parachutist performs a cutaway first.
 If still unsuccessful at 1,000 feet, both jumpers must deploy reserve parachutes in an attempt to slow the descent.
 If only one reserve parachute deploys, the parachutist with the good reserve must bring the other parachutist to the ground.
 If both reserves deploy, parachutists cut away from the entanglement.
NOTE: Communication between the parachutists and altitude awareness are critical in successful disengagement.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-19

Chapter 12

Trees Wire Water

 Avoids trees if possible.  Avoids wires at all costs,
 Attempts to land between even if a downwind
smaller trees. landing is required.
 Does not lower  Throws away ripcord.
equipment; jettisons if it  Turns off oxygen (if time
was lowered. and altitude permit).
 Turns canopy into wind.  Slows canopy down.
 Brakes as needed  Streamlines body while
(50-percent or more passing through the
braking position) to wires.
achieve vertical descent  If entangled, remains
through the trees. motionless until power is
 Just prior to feet disconnected.
contacting tree (limbs)  Prepares to do a
rotates hands and parachute landing fall
forearms up to protect after passing through
face. the wires.
 Prepares for a parachute  If the parachute is
landing fall. entangled in the wires
 If suspended, signals for and contact with the
assistance. ground is made, cuts
NOTE: Goggles and oxygen mask away from the main
provide additional face and eye chute immediately and
protection. moves away.
NOTE: If time and altitude permit,
parachutist unhooks the reserve
static line and jettisons
equipment.
 Avoids water if possible.
 Jettisons oxygen mask
and equipment.
 Unhooks reserve static
line.
 Unfastens chest strap and
waistband.
 Inflates flotation device, if
available.
 Turns canopy into the
wind.
 Uses brakes to slow
airspeed.
 After entering water,
releases leg straps (as feet
contact the water) and
swims free of the harness
and upstream from the
canopy.
 If being dragged in the
water, cuts away the main
canopy.
 If trapped under the
canopy, follows a seam to
the edge.
 Signals for assistance
using emergency devices.
NOTE: On entering water,
parachutist must be prepared for a
normal landing or a parachute
landing fall.

Figure 12-8. Parachutist emergency landing procedures

Condition Procedure

High Wind  Disconnect reserve static line at 1,500 feet.

 After landing, releases one toggle and pivots in direction of retained toggle.
 Pulls the toggle hand over hand until either the canopy collapses or he has
canopy fabric in hand.
 Attempts to run behind the canopy or downwind of the canopy.
 If unable to recover from a drag, ensures the reserve static line has been
disconnected and pulls the main release ripcord (red cutaway pillow) to
release the main canopy.
Dust Devils and  Avoid turbulence at all cost by maneuvering away.
Turbulent Wind  If unable to avoid, disconnect reserve static line at 1,500 feet, maintain full
flight, and remove all slack from the brake lines.
 If canopy begins to collapse quickly, conduct a 12- to 24-inch strike on the
toggles to prevent collapse; reattempt the procedure as needed.
 Jumper should be prepared to conduct a parachute landing fall.
 If jumper lands and is over taken by a dust devil—
 Try to gather up the canopy.
 Lay down on top of the canopy.
 If unable to control the canopy, disconnect the reserve static line and
cut away.

Figure 12-9. High-wind and dust devil landing procedures

12-20 TC 18-11 30 April 2015

 Emergency Procedures

CRASH LANDING (0 TO 1,000 FEET AGL)

12-10. If there is an emergency during takeoff or from 0 to 1,000 feet AGL—
 Assume the emergency landing position.
 Wait for the aircraft to come to a complete stop.
 Exit and assemble upwind in a safe direction indicated by the jumpmaster, crew chief, or senior
jumper.
 Conduct a head count, administer first aid and signal for help.

EMERGENCY BAILOUT (1,000 TO 3,000 FEET AGL)

12-11. The jumpmaster will give the emergency bailout signal by extending his arm straight up and
moving it in a circular motion with index finger pointed. He will then place a clinched fist by his reserve
ripcord and thrust his arm out to the side. The jumper must—
 Not crowd toward the tail of the aircraft, as that may cause the pilot to lose control.
 Exit single file on the jumpmaster’s command in a DBSL exit, clear the aircraft, and pull the
reserve ripcord handle.
 Complete the canopy controllability check, attempt to land with other jumpers, and assemble for
a head count.

EMERGENCY BAILOUT (3,001 FEET AGL AND ABOVE)

12-12. The jumpmaster will give the emergency bailout signal. If time permits, jump commands will be
given. The jumpers will stand up, hook up, and exit on the jumpmaster’s command in a good DBSL exit.
Once under canopy, attempt to land with other jumpers and assemble for a head count. If time does not
permit, the jumpmaster will give the emergency bailout signal to exit on your reserve parachute.
12-13. The following procedures will be followed:
 Do not crowd toward the tail of the aircraft, as that may cause the pilot to lose control. If time
permits, jump commands will be given. The jumper must—
 Exit on the jumpmaster’s command.
 Complete the canopy controllability check, attempt to land with other jumpers, and
assemble for a head count.
 If time does not permit, the jumpmaster will place a clinched fist by his reserve ripcord and
thrust his arm out to the side. The jumper must—
 Exit on the jumpmaster’s command, clear the aircraft, and pull the reserve ripcord handle.
 Complete the canopy controllability check, attempt to land with other jumpers, and
assemble for a head count.

PREMATURE DEPLOYMENT INSIDE THE AIRCRAFT

12-14. In the event a main or reserve parachute prematurely deploys inside the aircraft, the first person to
notice will shout, “Pilot Chute!” and attempt to contain the pilot chute or parachute. The following
procedures will be followed:
 Notify the jumpmaster and other jumpers immediately, to ensure the ramp and/or doors remain
closed.
 The jumper will be moved to a safe location inside the aircraft.
 If the deployment bag is out, the main will be cutaway and placed inside a kit bag.
 If the reserve pilot chute is deployed, the jumper will remove their equipment, place it in
their kit bag, sit with seat belt fastened, and land with the aircraft.
 The jumpmaster will inspect the jumper and decide whether to allow him to jump or to ride
down with the aircraft.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-21

Chapter 12

Note: If at any time the pilot chute or parachute gets outside the aircraft the jumper must exit
immediately.

POSTEXIT EMERGENCIES
JUMPER IN TOW BY STATIC LINE (CONSCIOUS JUMPER)
12-15. Maintain tight body position. The jumpmaster will cut the static line. As the jumper feels himself
falling free he will start his 6-second count (altitude permitting) attempting to gain a DBSL body position.
At the end of the 6-second count, look and verify that the canopy has opened. If the canopy fails to open,
pull the reserve ripcord handle. If you are being towed by your equipment the jumpmaster will cut you free.
As you feel yourself falling free, attempt to get into a DBSL exit position and start your 6-second count
(altitude permitting). At the end of the 6-second count, look and verify that the canopy has opened. If main
parachute fails to deploy, jumper immediately executes cutaway procedures.

Note: If you are being towed from a rotary-wing aircraft, maintain a good tight body position
and protect your reserve ripcord handle. The aircraft will slowly descend to the drop zone and
come to a hover; the jumpmaster will free you from the aircraft.

Note: For combat operations or for areas the rotary-wing aircraft cannot descend, the
jumpmaster may cut the static line. This will be briefed prior to the airborne operation.

JUMPER IN TOW BY STATIC LINE (UNCONSCIOUS JUMPER)

12-16. The jumpmaster will attempt to retrieve the jumper into the aircraft using the retrieval system.

DEPLOYMENT EMERGENCIES
DECISION ALTITUDE FOR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
12-17. A jumper must make the decision to initiate emergency procedures no lower than 2,500 feet AGL.
This altitude corresponds with the red zone on most altimeters. If it has been determined that a malfunction
exists, initiate the proper emergency procedures at that time. Do not wait to reach 2,500 feet AGL. Cutaway
must be performed by 2,000 feet AGL. Jumpers must not initiate cutaway procedures below
1,000 feet AGL. If the malfunction cannot be resolved and cutaway procedures have not been initiated by
1,000 feet AGL, the jumper must immediately deploy his reserve parachute. Jumpers should use the canopy
controllability check to assist with their decision, if needed.

TOTAL MALFUNCTION
12-18. A total malfunction occurs when the jumper fails to hook up the static line or the anchor line cable
breaks, resulting in the main parachute staying in the container not allowing the parachute to deploy. If the
jumper suspects he has a total malfunction after the 6-second count, he should look to verify that he does
have a total malfunction and immediately cutaway for a total malfunction.

Note: Stress emphasis on the fact that the static line attached pin must be released from the pack
closing loop so that the outer deployment bag and drogue can be released from the container to
deploy the RA-1.

Failure To Hook Up/Static Line or Anchor Line Cable Breaks

12-19. Failure to hook up the static line will result in a total malfunction which will become apparent after
your 6-second count. The parachutist—
 Verifies that he has a total malfunction.
 Conducts cutaway for total malfunction.

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 Emergency Procedures

Total Malfunction Emergency Cutaway Procedures

12-20. Follow these procedures for a total malfunction:
 Counter with the left hand.
 Look to identify the red cutaway pillow on the right main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grab the red cutaway pillow with the right hand.
 Pull the red cutaway pillow to a full-arm extension.
 Throw away the red cutaway pillow.
 Counter with the right hand.
 Look to identify the reserve ripcord handle on the left main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grab the reserve ripcord handle with the left hand.
 Pull the reserve ripcord handle to a full-arm extension.
 Throw away the reserve ripcord handle.
 Raise right shoulder to ensure the reserve pilot chute has launched.

PARTIAL MALFUNCTION
12-21. A partial malfunction occurs when drogue pilot chute deployment has been initiated, the main
container is assumed to be open, but the main canopy fails to deploy properly or does not meet acceptable
standards of integrity and/or control.

Partial Malfunction Emergency Cutaway Procedures

12-22. Follow these procedures for a partial malfunction:
 Counter with the left hand.
 Look to identify the red cutaway pillow on the right main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grab the red cutaway pillow with the right hand.
 Pull the red cutaway pillow to a full-arm extension.
 Throw away the red cutaway pillow.
 Counter with the right hand.
 Look to identify the reserve ripcord handle on the left main lift web, chest high, inboard.
 Grab the reserve ripcord handle with the left hand.
 Pull the reserve ripcord handle to a full-arm extension.
 Throw away the reserve ripcord handle.
 Raise right shoulder to ensure the reserve pilot chute has launched.

12-23. The jumper will make no attempt to clear the following partial malfunctions. These malfunctions
require immediate cutaway:
 Horseshoe. The main parachute or suspension lines are snagged on the jumper or his equipment.
Initiate cutaway procedures immediately.
 Bag Lock. The drogue pilot chute deploys and lifts the deployment bag out of the container. The
suspension lines fail to unstow properly and the canopy remains in the deployment bag. Initiate
cutaway procedures immediately.
 Line Over. The parachute deploys from the deployment bag. One or more lines are trapped
across the top of the canopy and deform its shape. This may cause the canopy to spin, stall, or
act erratically. Initiate immediate cutaway procedures immediately.

Note: Total and partial malfunctions that require immediate cutaway procedures for the RA-1
during MFF or DBSL operations are conducted using the same procedure.

16 October 2015 TC 18-11, C1 12-23

Chapter 12

POSTOPENING EMERGENCIES
12-24. Postdeployment problems that require a visual and/or canopy controllability check are as follows.

Note: Make only two attempts to clear a malfunction. Cutaway procedures must be initiated by
2,500 feet AGL.

LINE TWISTS
12-25. Follow these procedures for line twists:
 Reach up with both hands and separate the risers.
 Use a kicking motion to untwist the lines.
 Do not release the brakes until line twists are cleared.
 Maintain altitude awareness.
 If unable to clear twists by 2,500 feet, initiate cutaway procedures.
HUNG SLIDER
12-26. If the slider remains above the cascades, it will deform the canopy and degrade lift and drive
performance to an unacceptable level. Follow these procedures for a hung slider:
 Pump both rear risers vigorously to move slider downward.
 Release both sets of toggles and pump vigorously to bring it down completely if the rear risers
are not successful. The slider must travel at least half way down, past the suspension line
cascades, before attempting a canopy controllability check.
 If unable to clear the slider past the cascades or pass a canopy controllability check, initiate
cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.
CANOPY CONTROLLABILITY CHECK 50-PERCENT RULE
12-27. If the canopy requires more than 50-percent of a full control input to achieve the desired effect, or
the canopy makes a radical departure from normal flight at 50-percent of a full control input, the canopy is
considered to be beyond its desired effective control range to be landed safely.
12-28. Follow these procedures for canopy controllability:
 If the canopy can be made to fly straight, make a left turn, make a right turn, and brake at least
halfway; it can be safely landed. Flying with one toggle pulled down halfway to fly straight is
called “compensating.”
 To flare the parachute for landing in this configuration, bring toggles down while maintaining
the same differential between the two sides (at half brakes position), and conduct a parachute
landing fall.
END CELL CLOSURE
12-29. Follow these procedures for end cell closure:
 Pull toggles down to full-brake position and hold for 4 seconds. Repeat if necessary.
 Conduct a canopy controllability check. Use the 50-percent rule if necessary. Consider wind,
turbulence, distance, and condition of drop zone if canopy barely passes the test.
 If uncontrollable or does not pass the test, initiate cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.
DROGUE PILOT CHUTE OVER THE NOSE
12-30. Follow these procedures for drogue pilot chute over the nose:
 Conduct a canopy controllability check.
 Attempt to flip the drogue pilot chute back over the top of the canopy by bringing toggles to full
brakes and letting the toggles up abruptly.
 Use the 50-percent rule if necessary. Consider wind, turbulence, distance, and condition of drop zone.
 If uncontrollable, initiate cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.

12-24 TC 18-11, C1 16 October 2015

 Emergency Procedures

TENSION KNOTS
12-31. Follow these procedures for tension knots:
 Stop the turn with rear riser input.
 Unstow steering toggles and attempt to clear twice.

Note: Most tension knots occur above the slider which can make them difficult to identify. If
tension knots occur below the slider, they can prevent the slider from traveling down the lines
which may create a hung slider situation, hence the reason to pump vigorously.

 Conduct a canopy controllability check. Use the 50-percent rule if necessary and—
 Consider wind, turbulence, distance, and condition of the drop zone.
 If uncontrollable, initiate cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.
BROKEN SUSPENSION LINES
12-32. Follow these procedures for broken suspension lines:
 Stop the turn with rear riser input. It may be difficult to identify the broken lines and the canopy
may or may not look deformed. If there are two or more lines broken or if there are any A lines
broken, immediately perform cutaway procedures.
 Conduct a canopy controllability check. Use the 50-percent rule if necessary. Consider wind,
turbulence, distance, and condition of drop zone. If uncontrollable, initiate cutaway procedures
by 2,500 feet.
TORN FABRIC
12-33. Follow these procedures for torn fabric:
 Stop the turn with rear riser input.
 Inspect the lower skin for damage and the size of the hole.
 If the tear or hole is in the lower skin of the canopy, jumper performs a controllability check.
 Use the 50-percent rule if necessary. Consider wind, turbulence, distance, and condition of drop
zone.
 Check rate of descent with other jumpers. During descent and—
 If descending faster than other jumpers or if the top skin is also torn and you can see the sky
through the canopy, initiate cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.
 If only the top skin is torn (it may not be visible, especially at night), the only way to
determine that this condition exists may be by the way the canopy performs during the
canopy controllability check. If it is acting erratically, unusual, or descending faster than
others, that may be an indication of this condition.
ONE SET OF TOGGLES WILL NOT RELEASE
12-34. Follow these procedures when one set of toggles will not release:
 Stop the turn by holding the released toggles down at the half way point to equalize (compensate).
 Attempt to get the stuck toggles released.
 Conduct a canopy controllability check. Use the 50-percent rule if necessary.
 Consider wind, turbulence, distance, and condition of drop zone. Fly and land at full brakes if
acceptable; if not, initiate cutaway procedures by 2,500 feet.
PREMATURE BRAKE RELEASE
12-35. Follow these procedures for a premature brake release:
 Stop the turn with rear riser input (the released side).
 Immediately release both sets of toggles.
 Conduct a canopy controllability check. If uncontrollable, initiate cutaway procedures by
2,500 feet.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-25

Chapter 12

BROKEN CONTROL LINES

12-36. Follow these procedures for broken static lines:
 Stop the turn with rear riser input (the broken side).
 Release the brakes on the other side and steer with rear risers only.
 Complete the canopy controllability check using rear risers only. Jumpers—
 While still above landing pattern altitude, determine the flare point and practice the landing
flare using the rear risers.

Note: Be cautious of the fact that the amount of travel needed to flare or stall the canopy with
the rear risers is much shorter than the amount of travel needed with the toggles to get the same
effect.

 Flare the parachute for landing with both rear risers only and conduct a parachute landing
fall if needed.

Note: Make only two attempts to clear postopening emergencies. Remember to use the
50-percent rule when applicable. Cutaway procedures must be initiated by 2,500 feet.

ENTERING A CLOUD
12-37. Follow these procedures when entering a cloud:
 Use 50-percent breaks.
 Maintain heading and pick up reference points if possible, prior to entering the cloud.
 Maintain altitude and air awareness.

DUST DEVIL
12-38. Parachutists should stay alert under canopy for signs of swirling or erratic wind conditions. The
drop zone safety officer may use red smoke or flares to warn of visible turbulence, such as dust devils.
Parachutists avoid turbulence at all costs by maneuvering away under canopy. If the parachutist is unable to
avoid the turbulence, he should maintain full flight and fly straight through the dust devil, removing all
slack from the brake lines to prepare for a possible canopy collapse. If the canopy begins to collapse, the
parachutist should quickly conduct a 12- to 24-inch strike on the toggles to prevent collapse. Depending on
the altitude, the parachutist should reattempt this procedure until the canopy reinflates or landing is
imminent. As the parachutist approaches the ground, he should flare the canopy fully and be prepared to
conduct a parachute landing fall.
12-39. If the parachutist lands and is overtaken by a dust devil, he should—
 Try to gather up the canopy.
 Lay down on top of the canopy.
 If unable to control the canopy, disconnect the reserve static line and cut away.

DUAL-DEPLOYMENT EMERGENCIES
12-40. In the event a MFF or DBSL jumper encounters a dual deployment of both canopies, the jumper
must identify the dual-deployment scenario at hand and take corrective action to resolve the problem.
Various scenarios can result in having both parachutes deploy with one of the following outcomes. The
emergency techniques discussed below and with practice in performing the correct procedures will assist
the jumper in achieving the desired effects on correcting the dual-deployment emergency.

12-26 TC 18-11 30 April 2015

 Emergency Procedures

COMMON CAUSES OF DUAL DEPLOYMENTS

12-41. There can be several different causes of dual deployments. Some of the common reasons are as
follows:
 Dislodged reserve ripcord pin due to aircraft seating or movement inside the aircraft prior to exit.
 Electronic automatic activation device activation due to improper setting.

COMMON RESULTS OF DUAL DEPLOYMENTS

12-42. Some common results of dual deployments consist of the following:
 Canopies fight for the same airspace.
 Pilot chutes can take any route available.
 Second pilot chute to launch from jumper’s back can pass through lines, risers, or slider of other
parachute.
 Deployment devices can be entangled in the other canopy or with the deployment devices of the
other canopy.

COMMON CONFIGURATIONS OF DUAL DEPLOYMENTS

12-43. Dual deployments consist of side by side, biplane, down plane, and partially deployed
as depicted in Figure 12-10.

Figure 12-10. Dual deployments

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-27

Chapter 12

Side By Side
12-44. Follow these procedures when both canopies have fully deployed and are flying next to each other:
 Ensure both canopies are not entangled by tracing the risers and suspension lines to their
respective canopies. It may be difficult to determine at night, as the strobe may be the only
lighting available. Do not assume that they are clear. Take the time to make sure, as it is
imperative to make the correct determination.
 Do not release the brakes on either canopy. If already released, fly in half brakes.
 Separate the canopies into a down plane with the left hand on the left rear riser of the left
canopy.
 Pull cutaway handle with the right hand and let go of left rear riser and main release ripcord (red
cutaway pillow) simultaneously (or toggle if steering with toggles).
 If the canopies are entangled or when below 1,000 feet, steer the most controllable canopy
toward the other with the rear risers, making all turns gently towards the other canopy to prevent
them from going into a down plane configuration.
 Steer the canopy that is the most inflated or does not have line twists. If the brakes have already
been released on a canopy, then steer toward the other canopy with the toggles in hand,
maintaining half brakes so that one canopy does not try to outrun the other canopy with the
brakes still set.
 Match the speed of the other canopy. Steer into the wind if possible.
 Do not attempt to flare either or both canopies. Just land them as is and conduct a parachute
landing fall. If both canopies are touching end cell to end cell, they should be descending very
slowly and the landing should be comfortable.

Biplane
12-45. The most likely canopy configuration from a simultaneous or near simultaneous deployment is a
biplane with the main canopy in front and the reserve in the rear. During a biplane, both canopies will be
flying in the same direction with one behind the other. The shorter rear canopy’s leading edge will rest
against the steering lines below the trailing edge of the taller front canopy. Follow these procedures when
both canopies have fully deployed and are flying in the same direction:
 Ensure both canopies are not entangled by tracing the risers and suspension lines to their
respective canopies.
 Do not release the brakes on either canopy.
 Separate canopies into a side-by-side configuration.
 Use the left rear riser of the left canopy and continue to separate them into a down plane.
 Release the rear riser in the left hand as the cutaway handle is pulled with the right hand.
 If the canopies are entangled or below 1,000 feet, steer the front canopy with the rear risers,
making all turns gently and the trailing canopy will follow. Steer into the wind if possible. Do
not attempt to flare either or both canopies and conduct a parachute landing fall.

Down Plane
12-46. One canopy fully inflates and the other inflates possibly with line twists, both canopies are diving
towards the ground, one on either side of the jumper.
 Ensure both canopies are not entangled by tracing the risers and suspension lines to their
respective canopies.
 Pull the main release ripcord (red cutaway pillow) with your right hand.
 Clear any line twists, unstow toggles, and find a safe place to land.
 If the canopies are entangled or below 1,000 feet, steer the most controllable canopy toward the
other with the rear risers. Attempt to steer them together to get them overhead. Make all turns
gently towards the other canopy. Prepare for a parachute landing fall.

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 Emergency Procedures

Partially Deployed
12-47. Follow these procedures when one canopy is completely deployed and the reserve or main
partially deploys:
 Try to contain it by gently pulling the bagged canopy up slowly and coiling the lines carefully
while stowing the bag between your legs, in your jumpsuit, or behind you equipment.
 Keep the brakes set or fly slowly with brakes to prevent airspeed from pulling the canopy out of
the deployment bag.
 If the canopy begins to inflate, make sure the lines do not become entangled with the jumper or
his equipment.
 Allow canopies to settle into a configuration.
 Ensure both canopies are not entangled by tracing the risers and suspension lines to their
respective canopies.
 If not entangled, use rear risers to configure into a side-by-side configuration. Follow side-by-
side procedures.
 If the canopies are entangled or below 1,000 feet, fly the most controllable canopy with the rear
risers, making all turns gently towards the other canopy.
 If a suspension line is caught on the equipment or body, attempt to clear it or cut it as a last
resort. Prepare for a parachute landing fall.

CANOPY COLLISION EMERGENCIES

12-48. Most canopy collisions occur during limited visibility or the landing phase of the MFF or DBSL
jump. This is a result of too many parachutists maneuvering their canopy to get into one small area. A
jumper may also lose awareness of their surroundings. Vigilance in maintaining canopy control, observing
your surroundings, and choosing a less congested area can help avoid a canopy collision.
ACTIONS TO AVOID A CANOPY COLLISION
12-49. Follow these procedures to avoid a canopy collision:
 Steer with the rear risers to avoid collisions.
 Always turn right to avoid head-on collisions with another jumper if collision is imminent.
 Avoid body-to-body contact.

Note: Sometimes a left turn may be the best option to avoid a collision or to avoid body-to-body
contact.

Note: The lower jumper has the right of way.

 If collision is imminent, assume the spread eagle position while covering the emergency handles
with your left arm.
 Be prepared for a violent impact that may smack and cut the jumper and/or equipment.
ENTANGLEMENT WITH ANOTHER PARACHUTIST
12-50. Follow these procedures if entangled with another parachutist:
 Protect emergency handles with the left arm. Other canopy and/or lines may scrape across the
jumper and then clear.
 If entanglement occurs, attempt to free yourself while protecting handles.
 Communication between jumpers and altitude awareness are critical to successful
disengagement. Jumpers—
 Communicate positive commands only, such as “hold on to me” or “4,000 feet, are you
okay?”
 Only use the word “cutaway” when the other jumper should cutaway.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-29

Chapter 12

 If covered in fabric, assume that you are the higher jumper and probably have a good canopy
above that is supporting both jumpers.
Entanglements Above 2,000 feet AGL
12-51. Follow these procedures for entanglements above 2,000 feet AGL:
 If the higher jumper has a good canopy, that jumper should attempt to clear the entanglement
while protecting emergency handles.
 Follow your lines out of the entanglement if possible.
 If the entanglement can be cleared, the lower canopy should reinflate within 150–200 feet. Both
jumpers should complete a canopy controllability check and inspect their parachute and harness
thoroughly for damage, then decide whether it is safe to continue to fly and land.
 If the canopy cannot be cleared, the engulfed jumper fails to respond, appears to be going
unconscious, or the altitude is approaching 2,000 feet, the lower jumper should communicate his
intention to cutaway by saying “2,000 feet, I’m initiating emergency procedures” then initiate
cutaway procedures by 2,000 feet after disconnecting his reserve static line. The higher jumper
should clear the canopy from his face and controls so that he can see and steer. He should
continue to clear the canopy if possible, keeping his handles protected. If the canopy cannot be
cleared safely, the jumpers should fly slowly with brakes to diminish the drag of the other
canopies and potential for interference in flight and control.
Entanglements Between 2,000 feet and 1,000 feet AGL
12-52. Follow these procedures for entanglements between 2,000 feet and 1,000 feet AGL:
 Jumpers should communicate altitudes and positive commands such as “1,500 feet, hold onto
me” or “1,000 feet, I got you.”
 The lower jumper has two options. He can perform cutaway procedures after disconnecting his
reserve static line or he can land with the higher jumper.
 If the lower jumper decides to land with the higher jumper, the lower jumper should jettison his
equipment if worn.
 The higher jumper should maintain control of the lower parachutist and fly final approach at half
brakes if possible.
 The higher jumper lands at full brakes; both jumpers should execute a parachute landing fall.

Entanglements Below 1,000 Feet AGL

12-53. Follow these procedures for entanglements below 1,000 feet AGL:
 The higher jumper should make every effort to maintain the lower jumper’s canopy.
 The higher jumper should maintain control of the lower jumper and fly final approach at half
brakes if possible.
 The lower jumper should jettison combat equipment, if worn.
 Both jumpers should be prepared to execute a parachute landing fall.

Neither Jumper Has a Good Canopy

12-54. Follow these procedures when neither jumper has a good canopy:
 Jumpers should attempt to establish communication such as altitudes and positive commands.

Note: If both canopies are uncontrollable and/or collapsed, it may be difficult to establish which
jumper is higher and which is lower and it may be alternating repeatedly.

 If a jumper is entangled in lines, that jumper should attempt to free himself and cutaway first.
 The lower jumper should cutaway after the higher jumper.
 The higher jumper could be fatally engulfed in the lower jumper’s lines and canopy if the lower
jumper were to cutaway first.

12-30 TC 18-11 30 April 2015

 Emergency Procedures

 If impact with the ground is imminent, both jumpers should deploy their reserve to increase the
amount of fabric exposed and the extra drag created.
 Never give up; you have the rest of your life to attempt to slow your descent.

Entanglements With Another Jumper’s Reserve Static Line

12-55. Follow these procedures for entanglements with another jumper’s reserve static line:
 A reserve static line can quickly deploy a reserve canopy after initiating a cutaway at a low
altitude. If the upper jumper in lines needs to initiate cutaway procedures, disconnecting the
reserve static line can create a window of opportunity to disengage from the entanglement prior
to the reserve container opening.
 A reserve static line can be disconnected after a successful canopy controllability check during a
high-altitude high-opening operation in case of entanglement. The reserve static line does not
usually have a negative effect on an entanglement situation. Some reserve static line designs
may interfere with riser separation when two canopies deploy or during entanglements.
 A hook knife should be used only as a last resort in most situations. Very few situations require a
knife. Most jumpers will cut the wrong thing if they try to use a knife in most situations. A line
caught on equipment in a two-canopy deployment or entanglement situation would be appropriate.

HAZARDOUS LANDING PROCEDURES

12-56. There are many landing obstacles that are potentially hazardous to parachutists such as trees, water
obstacles, power lines, and high winds. The parachutist, under canopy and at altitude, should use this time
to evaluate the landing area before making his final approach to the drop zone. Prior to every airborne
operation, parachutists should be briefed on the drop zone hazards and alternate landing areas.

TREE/CACTUS LANDINGS
12-57. Follow these procedures for tree/cactus landings:
 Look away; steer away to avoid obstacle.
 Do not lower combat equipment for extra protection.
 Jettison combat equipment if it has already been lowered.
 Keep your goggles and oxygen mask on for protection.
 Face into the wind to lower your ground speed.
 Attempt to land vertically with brakes.
 For shorter trees of 30 feet tall or less, attempt to land between them in an effort to make it to the
ground.
 For trees that are taller than 30 feet, attempt to land directly in the center of one in order to be
caught by it. This will provide large enough limbs to support the suspended jumper and make it
safer and possible to climb down.
 Keep the toggles in hand and protect the face with the forearms.
 Keep the feet and knees together and prepare for several parachute landing falls as contact with
limbs and eventually the ground is made.
 If suspended, wait for assistance.
WATER LANDINGS
12-58. Follow these procedures for water landings:
 Attempt to land as close to shore as possible.
 Jettison ruck/parachutist drop bag, helmet, and oxygen mask if worn.
 Disconnect the reserve static line and unfasten the chest strap and waistband if time permits.
 Do not lean forward and fall out of the harness.
 Turn the canopy into the wind, flare normal, and prepare for a parachute landing fall.

Note: The water may be shallow.

30 April 2015 TC 18-11 12-31

Chapter 12

 Once in the water, release leg straps and slide free of the harness.
 If being dragged, pull the cutaway handle.
 If trapped under the canopy, push the canopy up and get some air, then follow a seam to the edge.
If required—
 Push lines up over your head or down under your legs as needed.
 Move slowly and do not thrash or panic as this will cause floating lines to wrap around arms
and legs.
WIRE LANDINGS
12-59. Power lines are nearly invisible from above. Never fly between two telephone poles, as there is
usually a wire there that cannot be seen. Never cross over power lines at an altitude less than 1,000 feet AGL;
fly canopy to an alternate landing area to avoid power lines. Almost every building has a power line running
to it. Try to determine where it is coming in from and avoid landing in that area. Power lines usually follow
roads and are also located in swaths cut through forests. Follow these procedures for wire landings:
 Look away; steer away.
 If a wire landing is imminent and time permits, disconnect the reserve static line, turn off the
oxygen, and jettison the parachutist drop bag/ruck.
 Land downwind or in a braked turn as a last resort to avoid contacting a wire.
 Attempt to parallel the wires in a braked position to attain a vertical descent.
 If contact with a wire is made, try to avoid contacting a second wire.
 Be prepared to execute a parachute landing fall if the wires are cleared and contact with the
ground is made.
 If contact with the ground is made, cutaway the main canopy and move away.
 If suspended, remain motionless until power is turned off.
 Do not let anyone or anything come near you as electricity can arc across a gap and the ground.
OBSTACLES IN THE LANDING AREA
12-60. Follow these procedures when obstacles are in the landing area:
 Look away; steer away.
 Go to full brakes and full flare if appropriate.
 If contact with the object is imminent, contact feet first and perform a parachute landing fall.
 When landing near a road, quickly gather your canopy and move away.
HIGH-WIND LANDINGS
12-61. Follow these procedures during high-wind landings:
 Disconnect reserve static line at 1,500 feet.
 Flare slowly and gently. It may not require a complete flare to arrest the descent and prevent
going backward.
 Upon touchdown, release one toggle and pivot in the direction of the other toggle.
 Run toward the canopy and attempt to get to the other side or downwind of it so that the wind
blows it against your legs.
 Pull the other toggle and steering line in hand over hand until the canopy collapses or until
canopy fabric is in hand.
RECOVERY FROM A DRAG
12-62. Follow these procedures for recovery from a drag:
 Release one toggle completely.
 Pull the other toggle and steering line in hand over hand until the canopy collapses or canopy
fabric is in hand.
 If you cannot get to your feet or collapse the canopy because of injury or other issue, disconnect
the reserve static line (if not already disconnected), and pull the cutaway handle.

12-32 TC 18-11 30 April 2015