WW2 GERMAN LUFTWAFFE PILOTS FL30231 SEAT TYPE PARACHUTE AND HARNESS.
WHAT AI SAYS
While your search specified "F12031", the correct World War II German Luftwaffe designation code for pilot seat parachutes is Fl 30231 (short for Anforderungszeichen Flieger-Ausrüstung).
Authentic WWII German Luftwaffe seat parachutes (Sitzfallschirm Model 30 IS 24) are highly sought-after military collectibles. Because they are exceptionally rare, they only appear on the market sporadically through specialized militaria dealers and major auction houses.
By Autoflug of Berlin. Luftwaffe Sitzfallschirm, Model 30 IS 24B SA (Fl. 30231). From 1937 the British firm Irvin were contracted to supply Germany with parachutes. The Germans then continued to copy and produce their own version of the seat parachute after war broke out - hence the almost identical appearance to those used by the RAF. This parachute was worn by fighter pilots in Me109s and Ju87s but also by other crew in aircraft with the bucket recess in the seat. It features the copied RAF quick release (QR) box although the Germans added a safety 'key' to prevent accidental depression and potential premature release. The webbing harness is labelled 'Fallschirmgurt' (Parachute Harness), Autoflug Berlin. It also has the serial number number '2027053' and is dated 01 August 1941. It has the correct QR box with engraved German text reading 'To Release harness : Turn and push'. Text on the side of the box reads 'Gesichert' (Safe) and 'Ensichert' (unlocked). The safety 'key' is attached via a narrow webbing lanyard secured to the harness and a wide canvas webbing waistbelt carries both the QR box and ripcord housing. The olive green reed linen pack is complete with label marked 'Sitzfallschirm, Baumuster (type) 30 IS 24B SA, Anforderungszelchen Fl 30231, Werkenummer 2027053' and is dated 1 August 1941 with a further date of 07th August 1941.
The harness webbing is a bit grubby and has some some rust marks that have transferred from the surface corrosion on some of the metal componants. The QR box is fully functioning however one of the buckles that clip in is missing has been replaced with a field made one. The rip cord housing and handle is present. The parachute is present within the pack. There is some material missing from one of the edge flaps (not seen when packed) and some minor fraying but nothing serious. The assembly is completed with the correct canvas backpad and seat cushion, marked 'FL412703', both in very good condition. There is damage here and there as shown in the images that do not detract from the parachutes apperance but enhances its story of being used in combat possibly on more than one ocassion
It is extremely difficult to find a Luftwaffe parachute kit and this is near complete and in very good used condition. Even Replica ones command very high prices. Buy it while you can. A superb display piece.