How often must the main and reserve parachute be packed?

The main and reserve parachute must be packed every 180 days to ensure they remain in optimal condition and ready for use. This packing requirement is essential for maintaining safety standards within the sport of skydiving. Parachute packing involves a careful and precise process that is crucial to ensure the parachute deploys correctly during a jump.

Regular packing helps to prevent issues such as dirt buildup, moisture retention, or other factors that could lead to malfunctions. Adhering to the 180-day packing rule ensures that the equipment is inspected and maintained properly. This timeframe balances the need for both safety checks and the practical considerations of usage frequency among skydivers.

In the context of parachute packing, periods shorter than 180 days would lead to unnecessary overpacking, while longer periods increase the risk of potential failure due to degradation or mismanagement of the equipment.