The full-plane parachute, also called the "Airframe Parachute System", was developed to allow for a safe return to earth if an in flight emergency is encountered. The system can be controlled by the pilot on the decent and is deployed by pulling a red handle above the cockpit panel. A disadvantage with this recovery system is that it works well for small aircraft that weigh typically under 5000 pounds but not for heavier commercial jets which sometimes weigh more than 1,000,000 pounds when fully loaded. Ballistic Recovery Systems Inc, the manufacturer of the parachute has sold nearly 500 of its $16,000 parachutes to private plane owners around the globe.
