How do you know if a reserve parachute has been packed by an FAA rigger within the last 180 days?

A reserve packing data card is a crucial document that provides essential information regarding the packing and inspection of a reserve parachute. This card contains specific details such as the date of packing, the rigger's signature, and their FAA certification number. By referring to the information on this card, you can confidently determine if the reserve parachute has been packed by an FAA-certified rigger within the last 180 days.

This process emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate records for safety in skydiving. Given that a reserve parachute is a critical safety element, ensuring that it has been recently and properly packed is vital for the safety of the jumper. Other methods, such as visual inspections or verbal confirmations, may not provide reliable evidence of compliance with packing regulations.