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Just because a manufacturer has constructed, repaired or altered its own product by its own staff does not mean the work is airworthy. Mistakes happen and incorrect work can get by final inspectors at the factory.

It is up to FAA riggers in the field to catch those errors during the inspection/repack process of the harness/container and reserve parachute. And if it gets by the rigger, it’s up to the skydiving family to keep an eye out for our brothers and sisters as they gear up, board the plane and ride to altitude.

A recent case in point was a Strong Dual Hawk Tandem rig that was sent to the manufacturer for a harness replacement. A rigger at Chuting Star Rigging Loft was uncomfortable repacking the reserve after finding significant Velcro damage to a reserve riser during the inspection process. The rig was sent to Strong Enterprises for repairs.

When the rig returned from Strong, it was discovered that during the harness replacement, the ring cover flap was literally sewn down over the upper right student attachment ring. In addition, the adjustable lower lateral strap was threaded through the adapter incorrectly. See photos below. The rig in question was shipped back to Strong and corrected immediately at no charge.





This isn’t the first time something like this has happened, and it won’t be the last. And other manufacturers aren’t immune to an error. This article just happens to be about work done at Strong.

Remember riggers that a reserve inspection and repack includes a complete inspection of the harness, container, reserve and associated components. Make those inspections thorough. I recommend following a checklist. And just because the rig is fresh from the manufacturer after construction or repair, does not mean a rigger can skip the inspection process.