FAA Parachute Rigger study plan

Map every FAA regulation and advisory circular cited in the rigger handbooks to the specific recordkeeping duty it creates (packing record, repack cycle, logbook entry, seal, signature).

Build a one-page reference table of repack intervals and record retention rules for emergency, reserve, and chest-style parachutes.

Label a component identification set from memory: canopy types, suspension line types, connector links, risers, harness webbing, and pilot chute hardware.

Trace a sample packing record from seal number through rigger certificate to aircraft logbook entry and identify three common rejection points a certificated parachute rigger would flag.

Compare material specifications for nylon, polyester, and aramid fabrics and state the failure mode each resists in a parachute application.

Identify thread type, stitch type, and stitch density requirements for canopy seams, harness stitching, and container attachment points.

Practice or observe five core sewing operations: straight seam, bar tack, box-X, zigzag, and tacking, and record the machine settings used for each.

Explain how load path continuity is maintained across a seam, a connector link, and a riser junction.

Perform a systematic inspection of a canopy, lines, harness, container, and hardware using a written checklist and document every discrepancy found.

Measure line trim and line length against the manufacturer's tolerance and record the deviation.

Demonstrate folding and packing sequence for one canopy type while narrating each step aloud.

Identify the conditions that require a parachute to be removed from service versus repaired in place.

Assemble a complete parachute system from components and verify each connection against the manufacturer's instructions.

Route suspension lines, attach connector links, and confirm riser orientation without reference to a diagram on the second attempt.

Pack and seal a reserve under supervision and record the seal number and packing date correctly.

Explain the difference between a pack job that is airworthy and one that is merely complete.

Classify ten repair scenarios as minor repair, major repair, or alteration and cite the basis for each classification.

Describe the documentation and approval path for each classification, including who may perform the work.

Draft a repair order that captures the discrepancy, the approved method, the materials used, and the return-to-service signature.

Identify recordkeeping errors in three sample logbook entries and rewrite each correctly.

Explain the deployment sequence and failure points at each stage from throw to inflation.

Describe emergency procedures for a malfunction, a cutaway, and a reserve deployment, and state the decision criteria for each.

Calculate wing loading for three jumper and canopy combinations and interpret the resulting performance envelope.

Explain how weight, balance, and center of gravity affect canopy flight characteristics and landing approach.

Re-inspect the training parachute after a full repack cycle and compare findings to the week 3 inspection.

Perform two repairs from the week 5 worksheet under supervision and document the method used.

Audit a complete parachute file for missing records, expired repacks, and unsigned entries.

Explain the inspection intervals and wear indicators for hardware, webbing, and lines.

Take a timed 100-question practice exam weighted by domain percentage and score each domain separately.

Review every missed question and write the underlying rule or procedure that was misunderstood.

Re-drill the two weakest domains with fresh practice sets until each reaches 80 percent.

Recite the repack intervals, record fields, and repair classification rules from memory without notes.