Tony Schumacher testing the closed canopy to protect the driver

The cockpit canopy will be manufactured and distributed by Aerodine Composites Group and will be available for use by all Top Fuel teams. The equipment is an optional component, not mandatory.

“We were able to see the finished product yesterday and give our final approval to the Aerodine representatives,” said Glen Gray, vice president of technical operations, NHRA. “The product includes a fresh air system, fire bottle, and kick-out panels. The cockpit canopy will be available to any team that wants to use it starting this weekend in Brainerd.”

[Editor's Note: Aerodine is located in Indy.  Maybe IndyCar should have a mock up of a closed canopy fit it to a car and test it? Another project for forward-thinking Chip Ganassi who endorsed the DeltaWing car?]