Exploring the feasibility of parachute recovery systems for catastrophic failures in passenger aircraft


Afridi S. K., Akhtar S., Khan T. Z., Koondhar M. A., Mahariq I., Touti E.

Aerospace Science and Technology, cilt.173, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 173
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.ast.2026.111866
  • Dergi Adı: Aerospace Science and Technology
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC, zbMATH
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Aerodynamic simulation, Aviation Safety Engineering, Commercial aviation safety, Deployment Mechanism, Parachute recovery system, Structural integrity
  • İstanbul Gelişim Üniversitesi Adresli: Hayır

Özet

This paper investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of a Parachute Recovery System (PRS) as an advanced airframe safety enhancement for commercial aircraft, focusing on the Boeing 777. A mixed-methods approach integrates analytical, order-of-magnitude aerodynamic modeling, expert qualitative assessments, and real-world case studies. Simulation results indicate a generated drag force of approximately 26.4 kN, demonstrating the PRS capability to achieve limited drag contribution under idealized descent assumptions during in-flight emergencies. Evidence from Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft further validates PRS performance, achieving safe, low-impact landings with high survivability rates. However, large-scale implementation poses considerable engineering, financial, and regulatory challenges, including structural reinforcement, deployment reliability, and certification complexity. The cost-benefit analysis suggests that although initial and maintenance costs are significant, they may be offset by long-term safety improvements and reduced insurance liabilities. The study recommends the integration of lightweight composite materials, multi-stage deployment systems, comprehensive testing, and specialized pilot training, alongside collaboration among manufacturers, airlines, and regulatory authorities to streamline certification and operational adoption. The findings highlight the potential of PRS to advance next-generation aviation safety, enhance passenger survivability, and establish new benchmarks in commercial aircraft design and emergency recovery systems.