How frequently must both main and reserve parachutes be packed?

The correct frequency for packing both main and reserve parachutes is every 180 days. This requirement is critical to ensure the reliability and safety of the parachutes during deployment. Regular packing helps maintain the integrity of the parachute system by allowing packers to inspect the fabric, suspension lines, and other components for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination that could affect performance. By adhering to this 180-day rule, skydivers ensure that both their main and reserve parachutes are in optimal condition, providing an essential safety measure in the event of an emergency.

Other intervals, such as packing every 30 days or 90 days, may not align with best practices as outlined by skydiving safety regulations, leading to unnecessary stress or inefficiencies in the packing schedule. Annual packing can also be too infrequent, as it does not allow for regular inspections and maintenance of the parachute systems. Thus, the 180-day requirement is the established standard that balances safety with realistic maintenance practices for parachute systems.