Konkordski, I do have to agree with your comment. The threat is what is relevant, not the ability to carry it...however since the topic has been raised I can't resist discussing it.
N380UA, the doors open inwards first. You have to over come in excess of 7 pounds for every square inch. Thats equates to between one and two tonnes of weight on the door. Next, the doors open forward. So if you do get it open (by demanding the cabin be deressurised), you now have to push it forward into 250kts of wind!! I don't believe opening a 737 door enough to jump out in flight is an option. I was under the impression that the new o/wing exits are electronically locked in the air (by air/gnd sensing so out of flt deck control). If this is incorrect, and the o/wing was opened (by convincing the capt to depress) they would certainly be ripped off. They would probably hit the tail. If they didn't, then the jumper probably would!!
I have to agree, a parachute itself is not a threat. It is at best a method of escape. If it were accompanied by a method of threat (and this could be argued to be merely a verbal threat) then it could be a cause for concern.
Cheers...BH