1.2 Ram Air Progression System (RAPS) or Static Line Squares to Cat 8
Description
This article is from the Skydiving FAQ, by Barry Brumitt with numerous contributions by others.
1.2 Ram Air Progression System (RAPS) or Static Line Squares to Cat 8
This is available at most Drop Zones in the UK now, and
has totally replaced round parachutes at a large number.
This system uses the modern ram air or "square" sports
parachute from the first jump. The square parachute is a
wing which is landed by converting the forward speed to
lift to give a gentle tip-toe landing if performed
correctly.
The student first uses a Static Line square parachute
that is opened automatically on leaving the aircraft by
means of the "static line" attached to a strong point
within the aircraft. The student also has a piggyback
mounted reserve parachute and an Automatic Activation
Device (AAD) which will attempt to deploy the reserve if
conditions merit it.
During progression, the student with move on to a ripcord
deployed version of the same equipment. The ripcord may
be mounted on the legstrap or the bottom of the container
- it is not usually possible for a student to change
between equipment with different ripcord locations, so
moving between DZs may be difficult.
The progression system requires the student to
demonstrate over a series of jumps, stability and ability
to pull a dummy ripcord handle before progressing to
freefall. A further series of jumps incorporating
increasing freefall delays and showing control by
performing turns, back loops and tracks leads to the
Category 8 qualification dive of a half series. That is,
a dive exit, back loop, alternate 360 degree turns, a
short track and wave off, usually from 8000ft.
After achieving Cat 8 the parachutist may then convert
from ripcord to a throw away pilot chute. This must be on
kit fitted with an Automatic Activation Device (AAD).
The absolute minimum number of jumps is 17 or 18
depending on how the manual is interpreted, but expect a
good progression to take less than 30 jumps. A slow one
may take 50 or 60 jumps.
A variation of the RAPS progression allows the student
who has reached Category 5 to transfer to the AFF system
at Level 3. (This could reduce the cost of AFF by
avoiding the expensive early AFF jumps with two
instructors).
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