Curriculum
Ram Air Inflation

The following outlines the training curriculum at USAPR.

Square packing instruction A senior rigger candidate will pack at least 20 parachutes (round and square) under supervision for a BACK type rating plus sewing and minor repairs.
Container work A master rigger candidate will undertake major repairs and maintenance on canopies and harness/Container systems. In addition, they will be required to demonstrate experience in ram air reserve packing. The candidate must have the required number of pack jobs.

Round packing instruction Classroom  instruction-Mark Canopy patch instruction
     

LECTURES

Subjects covered in USAPR lectures include the following:
  • Tool ID and control
  • FAA Regulations
  • Record Keeping
  • Component & Compatibility
  • Hardware & Grommets
  • Parachute Materials
  • Hand tacking and Knots
  • AAD's Assembly and Maintenance
  • 3-Ring Maintenance
  • Parachute Testing
  • Service Bulletins & AD's
  • Sewing Machines & Maintenance
  • Canopy Repair and Line Maintenance
  • Round Parachutes
  • Ram Air Parachutes
  • Maintenance, Alterations & Manufacturing
  • Rigging Ethics & Economics
  • Fitting & Donning Equipment
PREPARATION
Based on our experience, the FAA written exam stresses the candidate the most. If the candidate does not pass this test they cannot proceed to the Oral and Practical exam.
IMPORTANT: Should the candidate FAIL the written exam, the cost to take the exam again is $175.00.

We cannot stress STRONGLY enough the importance of preparing for this test. The candidate should
study the "Parachute Rigger Study Guide". This will prepare the candidate with the knowledge to pass this exam.

The following website link is another option to assist in your preparation for the written test. This website provides the parachute rigger test questions. However be advised that some of the questions have incorrect answers.

http:\www.exams4pilots.org

We also recommend that you visit the FAA website and download a copy of the latest test bank questions for the Parachute Rigger. Test your knowledge before you arrive for your training. 

Click this link: www.faa.gov/education_research/testing/airmen/test_questions/media/rig.pdf

CANDIDATE EVALUATION
Candidates are evaluated at each level of training. At the conclusion of the training, each candidate meets with and is evaluated by the instructors.

PRE FAA WRITTEN and ORAL & PRACTICAL EXAMS
Each candidate will meet with the Chief Instructor for preparation for the FAA Written and Practical Exams. This includes a mock written exam based on a sampling of test questions by the FAA. A simulated oral and practical exam will also be completed prior to the scheduled appointment with the FAA DPRE.

CERTIFICATION
FAA Senior and Master Rigger Certificates are issued by the FAA DPRE after successfully completing an Oral and Practical Exam. The temporary Airman Certificate is valid for 120 days. The permanent Airman Certificate is issued by the FAA in Oklahoma City and mailed directly to the rigger.

USAPR Graduate riggers also receive a USAPR Graduation certificate, Graduate T-Shirt, USAPR Rigger Wings and USAPR Coffee Cup.