An all-purpose main for novice through experienced jumpers. Often a first canopy after student status, yet also enjoyed by seasoned skydivers.

Renowned for exceptionally soft, on-heading openings, though the snivel can be on the longer side.
Toggle and riser inputs are responsive but forgiving, with a moderate recovery arc. 
The Pilot delivers a flat glide and strong flare, making landings easy even in low-wind conditions. 
It is versatile across disciplines, from RW to wingsuiting (Although the 7 cell version is prefered by wingsuiters).

In lighter wing loadings (~1.0 lb/ft²) it's ideal for recent graduates, whereas at higher loadings (up to ~1.8) it provides sporty performance for experienced pilots who aren't quite ready to fly a high performance planform.

Many canopy schools use the Pilot for training due to its reliability.

The Pilot was Aerodyne's answer to mid-range canopies like the Sabre2; it quickly charmed skydivers with its openings and fun flight. 
It remains in production and has spawned variants like the larger Solo and the 7-cell Pilot.

Canopy Sizes

Size (sqft) Span (ft) Chord (min/max ft) Weight (lbs) Pack Vol (cu in)
90 15.3 5.3 / 6.27 4.74 304
96 15.51 5.4 / 6.36 4.88 314
104 16.16 5.63 / 6.62 5.08 327
111 16.54 5.76 / 6.78 5.24 337
117 16.91 5.89 / 6.93 5.39 347
124 17.64 6.15 / 7.23 5.46 351
132 18.2 6.35 / 7.46 5.63 368
140 18.74 6.54 / 7.67 5.79 379
150 19.4 6.77 / 7.95 6.01 393
168 20.53 7.16 / 8.42 6.34 416
188 21.72 7.58 / 8.9 6.71 440
210 22.95 8.01 / 9.41 7.08 465
230 24 8.39 / 9.85 7.41 486
250 25.95 8.71 / 10.2 7.74 501

Technical Details

Manufacturer
Aerodyne
Model
Pilot 9
Type
Main Canopy
Wingloading
1.0 - 1.80
Suitable For
Student
Novice
Intermediate
Experienced
Expert
Size Range
90 - 250 sqft
Build
9 cells
Aspect Ratio
2.51:1
Fabric
ZP ZPX UltraLPV
Line Type
Dacron 600 Vectran 700 ZLX Spectra 725
Production
N/A — Current
MSRP
$2760 USD

Popularity over time

Coming Soon

Data collection in progress

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