Dear George:

The jump was in Quincy at the World Freefall Convention from a 727 jet. It was a sunset load with the first pass running at 205 knots (236 miles per hour). This high run- in speed effectively resulted in the main canopy malfunction, since the Velcro riser covers were torn open by the slipstream blast. In freefall, both risers were exposed - both steering toggles were apparently trailing above me. After tracking away and dumping (throwaway) I had what seemed to be a normal deployment. As I reached to take the brakes off, I saw that one steering toggle was trapped out of reach in the cascade lines on the opposite side. The canopy started a medium speed spiral turn, which I probably could have controlled with the other toggle. I looked down, then I looked back at the trapped toggle and decided to cut away. I grabbed both the cutaway pad and the reserve handle. I peeled and pounded the cutaway, and then I followed through with the reserve handle. The MicroRaven deployed quickly, cleanly, and on heading in what seemed to be less than one and one half seconds. I looked to see where the main canopy and freebag were, and saw that two jumpers were already following them. I picked out a spot clear of the cornfields and the runway, and got a good standup landing. The only thing I might do differently next time would be to make one attempt to clear the trapped steering line. In all probability I am sure I would still end up cutting away. I was immensely pleased with the performance of my MicroRaven!!

Sincerely,

Paul R. Smith

Home Drop Zone
Weston on the Green
Oxon, United Kingdom