Neo Issues Safety Notice for High-Use Bikini Tandem Harnesses

Neo has identified localised wear on some webbing straps of a limited number of Bikini tandem harnesses that have seen particularly heavy use – typically more than 800 launches – and is reminding owners to carry out regular inspections.

“This wear is caused by repeated friction during reverse-launch procedures,” the company says, pointing to a photo of a damaged strap as an example.

Neo says the affected cases mainly involve harnesses used for professional tandem operations and other high-frequency work. To date, inspections of the harnesses in question “have not identified any failure likely to result in the opening or structural failure of the harness, nor any condition that would compromise its compliance with the applicable certification requirements.”

Even so, Neo is recommending that pilots inspect their equipment every year or after around 150 hours of flight, and after any significant impact.

During inspections and servicing, particular attention should go to the condition of the webbing, stitching and load-bearing connection points. The company also reminds users that carabiners must be replaced after 500 flight hours or five years of use, whichever comes first.

“If you have any doubts regarding the condition of your equipment, please contact NEO or have your harness inspected by an approved service centre,” they add.

Getting to know your equipment inside out is the best defence against wear going unnoticed – some pilots use a Harness Simulator to build that familiarity on the ground.

Fly safe, stay prepared. Keep hydrated on long tandem and training days with our Your Journey Bottle.