Parachute prep & inspection -- can you describe the actual process?

When a parachute has just been jumped, it then goes to the tower to be hung up. While hanging, the primary objective is to shake any debris free from the canopy and lines. From there, it goes either to a storage area, or to the pack floor. Once it's on the floor and ready to be packed, it gets placed on the pack table to be inspected and packed. Each packer must inspect the entire parachute system before and during the pack process. There is much more involved at that point, but basically, the packer is inspecting for any holes, burns, cuts, frays or any other discrepancies that could compromise the integrity of the parachute. In addition, the packer must stop at specific points so their inspector (typically a SGT or SSG) can ensure they have properly packed the parachute up to that point. Depending on the parachute, there's a different amount of checks and things the inspector is looking for. Once the parachute is completely packed, the inspector gives the parachute an overall inspection, after which both the packer and inspector sign the parachute log record book certifying that the parachute has been properly packed in accordance with the proper TM's. Next, the parachute gets inspected by an FI (final inspector), who writes all data of the parachute (serial numbers, packer/inspector names, manufacturer/pack dates etc.) on a record sheet after they have finished their own inspection. Next, the parachute will go to the issue facility to await issuing to a jumper. Once received at the issue facility, it gets inspected again, then secured. The parachute will receive one last inspection by a Rigger once it is about to be issued to a jumper. Once the jumper gets rigged and is ready to jump, a Jumpmaster will do a detailed inspection to ensure there is nothing wrong with the parachute, harness or how the jumper got rigged. The jumper loads the aircraft, and prior to exiting gets one last overall check from the safety. This whole process can happen within a day, but typically occurs over several days.

The process is long. Being a packer was fun. But after a while, it really can suck. I'm proud of all the kids out there doing it now. The new system is much more complex and harder to pack. Couple of these guys hit the nail on the head. Hope this gives you insight to the rigorous process it all goes thru.

I love learning. Thanks for sharing!