Business & GA

Martin Jetpacks to supply Ballistic Recovery Systems parachutes

By Kate Sarsfield

Ballistic Recovery Systems, manufacturer of whole-aircraft emergency parachute systems, has entered into an agreement with Martin Jetpacks to supply its emergency parachute recovery system for its ultralight system. BRS says its parachute will enable "the jetpack pilot to be saved during a catastrophic failure even when flying at a reasonably low altitude. Ballistic parachutes will open and function properly at relatively low altitudes, particularly if the aircraft has some forward speed. Work will begin soon to develop a "reliable, yet unobtrusive, safety system for this unique platform", says South St Paul, Minnesota-based BRS. The Martin Jetpack was unveiled at the AirVenture show in Oshkosh Wisconsin in July and are priced at $100,000. The Christchurch, New Zealand-based company is planning to sell 10-20 units a year once production begins in 2009.