The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued Safety Alert SA-102 on February 28, 2026, warning first responders of hazards from undeployed ballistic parachute recovery systems (BPRS) at aircraft crash sites. These rocket-powered systems, such as Cirrus Airframe Parachute Systems (CAPS) and BRS Aerospace units, can activate unexpectedly post-impact, endangering rescue personnel.
BPRS rockets may remain active if not fired before or during ground impact. Activation cables under tension or accidental cuts during extrication can trigger deployment. Responders must identify BPRS-equipped aircraft via triangular warning labels on the fuselage indicating rocket exit points and avoid those areas.
For deployed parachutes still attached, crews should wait until fully collapsed to enter the aircraft, preventing wind-induced dragging. Inside the cabin, avoid red T-shaped handles, which activate the system. Cutting fuselage or cables requires clearing non-essential personnel and staying clear of rocket tubes.
The NTSB cites investigations like WPR21LA145, where a primer charge malfunction left a rocket potentially active, unknown to on-scene responders, and ERA25FA151. On March 20, 2025, a Cirrus SR22 crashed near LaFayette, Georgia, during landing practice; its BPRS rocket fired minutes later amid first responders, per dashboard video, with no injuries.
Upon identifying BPRS, notify the NTSB 24/7 Response Operations Center at (844) 373-9922 for manufacturer guidance on disabling the rocket.