Research by the German Akafliegs (academic flying clubs) indicates that
one is unlikely to be able to bail out safely with less than 700 m
altitude. The chute needs only 100 m to deploy, but it is indeed the
egress, under stress and often under higher G forces, that takes time.
They also think it unlikely for anybody to be able to jump under more
than 1.5 positive G. That makes the NOAH system a very good idea.
Unfortunately, we often prefer to invest in performance or electronics
rather than safety devices... (in Germany, NOAH costs approximately 2
500 EUR, + 800 EUR installation, + VAT).

But every year, glider pilots are saved by their chutes - some bailed
out at lower altitudes than indicated above. I don't have a glider, but
I bought a parachute early on, just to be sure it's regularly repacked
and properly treated (not like some club parachutes I know of). If you
fly regularly, it's a good investment! If carefully chosen, it's also
an element of comfort.


--
stephanevdv
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