In-Flight Testing

Over the years, Second Chantz worked with several aircraft manufacturers to establish installation guidelines to insure proper parachute function. Many times a manufacturer would supply an aircraft for actual in-flight deployment tests. In this photo, taken 4000 feet over the Frazier River in British Columbia, test pilots' John Dunham of Second Chantz and Gary Douris of chute manufacturer "Free Flight Enterprises" have deployed a Sidewinder Model 750, and are measuring descent rates at full gross weight using a Beaver Microlight. Because of the heavy forest below, the parachute was cut away in flight, the Rotax engine was restarted, and a normal landing was performed. Dozens of in-flight tests were performed over the years.