Parachute Loft
The Redding Smokejumper Parachute Loft has two main functions. First, the loft rigs, maintains, and repairs the parachutes (both personnel and cargo) that the smokejumpers use. Secondly, the loft specializes in creating/developing, manufacturing, maintaining, and repairing the equipment and gear smokejumpers depend upon to do their jobs.
The only pieces of equipment the jumpers do not manufacture themselves is their personnel parachutes and jump helmets. All other gear such as our line gear, jump suits, pack out bags, harnesses, etc. is made in the loft.
The loft is a hub of activity with assorted sewing and fabricating machines lining the walls, along with large tables used to rig parachutes and work on various projects. From packing parachutes to sewing projects, the loft is where many smokejumpers spend their days working and waiting for the fire call.
The loft also has an extensive “Rigger Training” program. Smokejumpers spend many hours rigging and repairing parachutes with the goal of becoming an FAA certificated “Senior Parachute Rigger”. More experienced jumpers can work toward and achieve the level of “Master Rigger”.