USPA Skydiving B License Practice test

What is a potential danger associated with a loose or worn main-container closing loop?

1. Hard opening

2. Horseshoe malfunction

3. Premature deployment

4. Increased descent rate

The correct answer is: Horseshoe malfunction

A loose or worn main-container closing loop can lead to a horseshoe malfunction, which occurs when the parachute does not deploy correctly due to the canopy becoming entangled or stuck in the deployment system. This can happen if the closing loop is either too slack or damaged, preventing the deployment bag from releasing the canopy during the jump. In the context of parachute operation, the closing loop's primary function is to securely hold the deployment bag closed until the moment of deployment. If this loop is compromised, the deployment can be hindered, and the parachute might not fully unzip, leading to an improper opening sequence. This situation can create significant risks for the skydiver, including the possibility of being left with an un-inflated canopy or having the canopy deploy in an unstable manner. While the other answer choices describe different potential issues related to parachuting, they are not directly attributable to a loose or worn closing loop in the same way that a horseshoe malfunction is. Understanding the importance of maintaining the integrity of the closing loop is crucial for ensuring safe skydiving operations.