A method of severing an extraction line connected between an extraction parachute and a cargo load when the cargo load fails to eject from an aircraft. The method comprises the steps of spacing a cutter from the extraction line; spring-biasing the cutter in the direction of the extraction line; mechanically restricting the cutter with restricting means from engaging and severing the extraction line; and disabling the restricting means in response to a radio signal from a transmitter on the aircraft so that the cutter is released and severs the extraction line.