Replacement Parachute Wings

The Heart of the Matter

The most important component of a powered parachute is the parachute wing, itself. The wings may be called parachutes, canopies, parasails, paragliders or parafoils. In fact each of those terms really mean something slightly different and the wings are built differently to perform best in different applications. Even so, they have a lot in common including similar materials and construction methods.

Parachute wings are remarkably strong and long-lasting if cared for properly. You should get many years of enjoyment out of most canopies. But like all things, wings eventually need replacement. Technology changes and materials wear out. Sometimes they are damaged by the propellor or snagged on the terrain.

Inspecting your wing regularly is an important part of finding problems and solving them. But don't automatically assume that you need a new wing just because it is old or damaged. Age isn't a problem by itself. Damage can be repaired. If you have questions about your wing, you should talk to a parachute rigger, the wing manufacturer or your instructor for advice.

Performance Designs Canopies

The big advantage to Performance Designs parachute wings is that wings are built to a TSO production standard.

A big part of PD's business is reserve parachutes which are built to FAA Technical Standard Orders (TSO) standards. The FAA defines a TSO as a minimum performance standard for specified materials, parts, and appliances used on civil aircraft. When authorized to manufacture a material, part, or appliances to a TSO standard, this is referred to as TSO authorization. Receiving a TSO authorization is both design and production approval. Performance Designs long ago decided to use the same TSO process for all of their wing manufacturing, which introduces another level of safety.

Performance Designs has designed several wings for powered parachutes over the years and the Barnstormer and Sunriser wings are their current offerings.

The Sunriser

These are PD's highest lift canopies. The wings are high performers, best used on two seat machines. Originally designed to provide good lift for low-power machines, these wings perform even better with modern powerplants.

The Barnstormer

These are PD's highest lift canopies. The wings are high performers, best used on two seat machines. Originally designed to provide good lift for low-power machines, these wings perform even better with modern powerplanThe Barnstormer series is a quick-inflating, high-lift wing designed for single seat powered parachutes. Built from the same quality materials as the Sunriser, it is smaller, with 11 cells.

Information provided by the manufacturer.