Some manufacturers of eVTOLs and larger drones are deciding whether to fit ballistic or other types of parachutes. In the event of an in-flight emergency when all other means of redundancy options have failed, a parachute helps reduce the rate of descent and resultant impact forces.

But what are the key factors when considering parachutes?

We spoke to Michael Zimmermann1 from MZaero, providers of engineering and risk management services to the AAM industry.

Michael, what are the benefits of fitting a parachute?

The most obvious benefit is the enhanced safety of occupants, cargo, and the aircraft itself as a whole. Though catastrophic or total power failure is rare, aircraft without any inherent aerodynamic stability (e.g. multicopters) cannot glide and therefore may benefit from having a last resort safety measure.The parachute is one of the primary devices used when the aircraft’s propulsion system has failed, dependent upon sufficient altitude and vertical/horizontal speed parameters. A ballistic parachute, or a more application-specific MZaero design with proven safety features found in some military applications, may be used.Another benefit is market confidence, especially in the light sport aircraft segment where early adopters are building trust in electric flight. Fitting a parachute may also show stakeholders that safety is a priority for the manufacturer.Added to this, parachutes may be necessary if regulators decide to make them compulsory for particular aircraft or mission contexts. Certain countries already require a parachute system on microlights.

Are there challenges or limitations when integrating a parachute?

The weight penalty, even if only a few kilograms, can have significant performance implications for lighter aircraft and drones.Parachute systems can be expensive. Installation, ongoing maintenance, and potential need for aircraft redesign all increase cost and squeeze profit margins.Finally, parachutes add an extra layer of complexity to the aircraft. Any malfunction could negate the safety benefits, so diligent maintenance is crucially important rather than a “fit and forget” attitude.Ultimately, it’s a balance of efficiency and safety.

Regarding the impact on insurance, underwriters also have a human factor to consider. Parachutes with manual activation might be a tempting option for crew in a state of panic instead of finding a safe place to land. All these factors are relevant to insurance decisions, especially where aircraft involve more novel technologies like electric propulsion.

Image credit: Fruity Chutes

1 Michael has been involved in aerospace-related product development nearly his entire career, much of it with a specific focus on safety systems, including parachutes, structures, aircraft seating, restraint systems and related electronics. He worked for premier companies including Airbus, BAE Systems, Autoflug, and Siemens Automotive.

MZaero promotes a multi-stage energy absorbing package of different safety technologies for occupant/cargo protection, which includes custom, application-specific parachutes. MZaero provides technical support on systems engineering/integration as single off-the-shelf products will not sufficiently do the job as intended to save lives.

ATA is a global specialist in insurance for advanced technologies across the aerospace, defence, energy, industrial, transportation, and technology sectors.

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