How to Install an AAD in Your Parachute

In a parachute system, an AAD (Automatic Activation Device) provides an increased level of safety for skydivers. Should an accident occur during freefall, the AAD automatically deploys the reserve parachute for an emergency landing. Since their introduction to skydiving in the 1980s, AADs have saved skydivers from death during loss of height awareness, unconsciousness and general disorientation. Installing an AAD in your parachute is not only recommended at many skydiving centers, but often required.

Things You'll Need

  • AAD compatible skydiving rig
  • AAD power unit
  • AAD cutter
  • AAD control head
  • Reserve closing loop
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open and remove the reserve parachute from the skydiving container. Locate the AAD pouch on the flap between the main and reserve parachute. Place the AAD power unit in this pouch. Close the Velcro or elastic over the cables to ensure a snug fit.

    • 2

      Slide the AAD cutter (the small metal cylinder with a hole in the side) through the designated elastic. Position the AAD cutter in the elastic keeper pouch underneath the reserve loop-closing grommet.

    • 3

      Make one or two large loops with any excess cable. Stow this extra cable in the pocket at the bottom of the reserve parachute tray. Do not kink the cable.

    • 4

      Run the AAD control head (the user interface with a small LCD screen and button) to its proper location: usually a window near the rear of the skydiving container. Stow the extra cable in the adjacent pocket. Make large loops in the cable to prevent kinks.

    • 5

      Close all hook-and-loop closures and elastic pockets. Check the cables for kinks. Check AAD electronics for functionality according to your model's user manual.

    • 6

      Repack the reserve parachute using the manufacturer-recommended closing loop. Do not use a closing loop different than the one designed and tested by the AAD manufacturer.