All escape systems use a parachute to lower personnel to the surface at a safe vertical velocity. Supplementary parts may include, an internal pilot chute, an external pilot chute, or a ballistic spreader gun. It deploys first, sometimes being forcibly opened, and extracts the main canopy from its pack.
Some systems incorporate stabilizing drogues which are released from the seat.
These drogues then deploy the main parachute. Parachute deployment may be accelerated by drogue chute extraction. Flight surgeons must familiarize themselves with the specific parachute assemblies in use by their units through visits to the parachute loft. They are willing to discuss equipment items with interested personnel and to demonstrate its use when possible. Parachute Opening and Descent Parachute opening shock can be severe if escape conditions are such that the drogue parachute either malfunctions or the main parachute deploys prematurely.