[rdtsc]

> and can be recovered with much less than 50 ft of altitude loss.

What if a gust of wind blows when you’re closer to the ground. Falling 50ft with a large engine strapped to one’s back sounds like would lead to more than a twisted ankle.

[addaon]

I mostly fly unpowered, so engine weight is something I don't have as much experience with. Terminal velocity with 300 ft^2 of fabric above you, even if it isn't a functional wing, is pretty low; but yes, a collapse near the ground below recovery height and below reserve parachute height is a worst-case scenario. In general, flying below reserve height for any length of time isn't a great idea.