With the use of semi-stowless bags, there are variables that affect the controlled deployment of parachute suspension lines, including canopy size selection & materials, line types, packing techniques, etc.

As more of our customers have ordered semi-stowless bags, we have received some non-specific reports of variations in opening characteristics, including harder than expected openings, and now have received a few reports of line snags that have happened on the container while using the semi-stowless bag. This is a new situation we have not seen on the thousands of Icon containers equipped with the standard traditional elastic stow closure.

Based on these reports, Aerodyne has performed additional tests on the design of this semi-stowless bag in different conditions. These conditions accounted for a wide variety of variables such as canopy sizes related to the bag size, types of canopy fabrics, types of lines, opening speeds, and more importantly a variation of canopy packing techniques that we understand are used in the field. Through this additional testing we have determined that conditions can exist causing a premature release of lines from the bag.

As a result, we have developed an improved semi-stowless bag design that better addresses these issues. To improve performance and safety for customers using the original semi-stowless design, Aerodyne is offering the latest version and upgrading all Aerodyne original semi-stowless bags for our customers.

How you can Help

Please read the attached information (service Bulletin and FAQ document) and share with your customers.

To make the process of the mandatory exchange easier we have established 4 regional exchange centers (see list below) to help as much as possible with coordination. 

With this exchange, we are requiring the user to register their semi-stowless bag on our website. Then they can send their bag to the closest regional exchange center. Once we receive the bag we will send out an upgraded bag as soon as one matching their size is available. We will have a built-up stock of various sizes to start the exchange program. Based on the return rate and size variation, and noting that we expect about 500 bags in 10 different sizes, it could take up to a few weeks to replace your bag.

You can assist them by coordinating their registration, collecting the old bag and shipping it to the exchange center and delivering their new bag once available.

Regional Exchange Centers

To aid in the process of distribution, after registration old bags – with a copy of the registration – can be returned to the nearest exchange center to you. Once received we will process a replacement and sent within two weeks

North and South America (USA Canada, Mexico, South America)

Aerodyne Research LLC,

1407 Flightline Blvd, Unit 14, Deland FL 32724

Europe

Aerodyne Research Europe c/o Herman Landsman

Hoofdweg 101 Decocksdrop Netherlands JC 1795

Australia

Mee Loft c/o Koppel Solomon

84 Park Rd, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102

Rest of World (Africa, Far East)

Aerodyne Research Manufacturing

15 Marshall Dr., Unit 3, Crawford Mini Factories Mount Edgecombe, South Africa 4300