What action should be taken if there are signs of a parachute malfunction during descent?

In the event of a parachute malfunction during descent, the recommended action is to immediately cut away and deploy the reserve. This protocol is essential because the primary parachute is no longer functioning properly, and prolonging the situation by trying to troubleshoot or correct it can lead to critical time loss or increased risk of injury.

The decision to cut away is rooted in safety and the understanding that time is crucial in emergency situations. Statistically, successful reserve deployments increase drastically when actions are taken promptly. Therefore, cutting away and then deploying the reserve are fundamental steps designed to enhance the likelihood of a successful landing without injury.

Attempting to correct the issue by pulling toggles can hinder recovery efforts, especially if the malfunction is severe, while waiting until landing to report the issue misses the opportunity to secure a safer outcome. Signaling the instructor can be useful but is not a substitute for the immediate actions required to resolve a parachute malfunction.