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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-ppc-canopy-end-cells

During a powered parachute takeoff, what should the pilot confirm about the canopy?

All end cells fully inflated and the canopy centered.

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  1. That it is partly collapsed for a gentler lift
  2. That all end cells are fully inflated and it is centered ✔
  3. That it leans to one side to start a turn

Why: The practical test standard has the pilot check that all end cells are fully inflated and the canopy is centered. An evenly inflated, centered wing lets the aircraft track straight.

Huh, didn't know that: Powered parachutes usually carry 5 to 20 gallon fuel tanks, and unlike ultralights, they have no limit on fuel tank size.

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A powered parachute is the only aircraft that needs its wing to get up before the rest of it does.
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References

Answer: That all end cells are fully inflated and it is centered. The practical test standard has the pilot check that all end cells are fully inflated and the canopy is centered. An evenly inflated, centered wing lets the aircraft track straight.

  1. FAA Sport Pilot PTS for WSC and Powered Parachute www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/sport_wsc_pp_pts_31.pdf
    Checks canopy, ensuring that all end cells are fully inflated and canopy is centered
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FAA Powered Parachute Handbook MOSAIC Addendum www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/PPC_HB_Addendum_(MOSAIC).pdf
    PPCs have no limitations as to the size of the fuel tank, unlike its ultralight vehicle predecessor.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. FAA Sport Pilot PTS for WSC and Powered Parachute www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/sport_wsc_pp_pts_31.pdf
    Verifies suspension and steering lines are not tangled or twisted.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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