The Parachute Landing Assistant (PLA) MK3 is a one-of-a-kind, laser-based training tool designed to greatly reduce student landing injuries and accelerate the learning of the correct flare height and timing. Years of development and testing have led to the PLA MK3 setting a new industry standard in canopy flight safety equipment.

Using a precision LIDAR sensor system, the PLA audibly alerts pilots with two precise warning tones at preselected altitudes, guiding them to initiate and complete the flare sequence accurately—day or night.

Invented by Pat Nikitenko, a retired Navy SEAL who saw a critical need for safer landings, the PLA was engineered to help pilots master flare height, reduce injuries, and increase safety in training operations. As the premier canopy flight training provider to the military, Flight-1 is proud to partner with Plako LLC on its development, implementation, and training methods to bring this revolutionary tool to pilots worldwide.

Powered by a precision LIDAR sensor system, the PLA MK3 logs the full landing sequence, giving instructors and students the ability to review and refine performance in real time. Used alongside Flight-1’s training, the PLA MK3 is proving to be a powerful tool for student development—reducing injuries, building confidence, and greatly accelerating the learning curve.