Cirrus SR22

SR22
Role Civil utility aircraft
Manufacturer Cirrus Aircraft
Produced 2001–present
Number built 4365 through 2013[1]
Unit cost
US$499,900 (base price, 2015)[2]

The Cirrus SR22 is a single-engine, originally four and later five-seat, composite aircraft built by Cirrus Aircraft starting in 2001. It is a more powerful version of the Cirrus SR20, with a larger wing, higher fuel capacity, and a 310 horsepower (231 kW) engine. It is extremely popular among purchasers of new aircraft and has been the world's best-selling, single-engine, four-seat aircraft every year since 2004.[3] Like the Cessna 400, but unlike most other aircraft in its class, the SR22 has fixed (non-retractable) landing gear.

The aircraft is perhaps best known for being equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), an emergency whole-plane parachute capable of lowering the entire aircraft (and occupants) safely to the ground after a loss of control, structural failure or mid-air collision.[4]

Design and development

Cirrus SR22T G3
Cirrus SR22 G2 showing how the doors open
Cirrus SR22 Gen 5

The SR22 was certified in November 2000 and is a higher-powered version of the earlier SR20. The SR22 is a low wing cantilever monoplane of composite construction with tricycle landing gear, featuring a castering nose wheel and steering via differential braking on the main wheels. It is powered by a nose-mounted 310 hp (230 kW) Continental IO-550-N piston engine. The four-seat cabin is accessed through a door on each side.

In 2004 the company introduced the SR22 G2 (Generation 2) and in 2007 the SR22 G3 (Generation 3). Both were defined by airframe modifications, G2 by fuselage and G3 by wing/landing gear changes.

In 2013 the Cirrus SR22 G5 (Generation 5) was introduced (there was no G4). Key changes were an increase in gross weight to 3,600 lb (1,633 kg) and a standard five-seat cabin arrangement.[5] The G5 received only very minor changes for 2014 including integrated LED lighting and high performance Beringer brakes.[6][7]

In 2014 the SR22 and SR22T were the highest selling four-to-five-seat fixed wing aircraft in the world and had been for twelve years in a row.[8][9]

Turbocharged models

Cirrus introduced the "SR22 Turbo" in 2006. This was factory installation of a Tornado Alley turbonormalizing upgrade kit installed under a Supplemental Type Certificate. It features twin turbonormalizers and twin intercoolers.[10] Also included with the conversion is built-in oxygen and a Hartzell 3-blade lightweight composite propeller. The weight of the conversion reduces the SR22's useful load. Air conditioning is available with the SR22 Turbo, but this further reduces the useful load. The turbo version has a certified ceiling of 25,000 feet (7,600 m), a maximum cruise speed of 211 knots (391 km/h), and a top speed of 219 knots (406 km/h).[11][12][13]

In 2010, a new model was introduced, the SR22T. This used a new engine, the Continental TSIO-550K that produces 315 hp (235 kW) with a 7.5:1 compression ratio and will run on 94 octane fuel.[14]

Glass cockpit

Pre-2008 Cirrus instrument panel with the Avidyne Integra primary flight display
Instrument panel with Cirrus Perspective avionics by Garmin

SR22s that were built before 2003 were equipped with traditional analog instruments and a 10" Multi-function display (MFD). In 2003 SR22s were first delivered with the Avidyne Entegra primary flight display which later that year became standard equipment, making the aircraft the first of its kind to come standard with an all glass cockpit.[15] Retrofits are available for the older aircraft that replace the instrument panels with a new one that will include the PFD, a new multifunction display and the installation of back-up mechanical instruments.[16]

On 22 May 2008, Cirrus and Garmin revealed a new cockpit, Cirrus Perspective (by Garmin).[17] Both cockpits were available for a period (Avidyne cockpit was initially standard equipment). Today only the Perspective panel is offered.

In 2009, the third-generation Cirrus SR22 GTS came equipped with a new enhanced vision system (EVS), a sophisticated dual-wavelength instrument that offers both infrared and synthetic vision.[18]

At the 2010 EAA AirVenture, Cirrus announced its plans to certify Garmin's system known as ESP (Electronic Stability and Protection) on the Cirrus SR22. It would include advanced flight envelope protection that could stabilize the aircraft with the push of a button, to avoid spiral from developing.[19]

Flight into known icing

The completion of testing for flight into known icing (FIKI) was announced by the manufacturer on 12 January 2009. The equipment change involved installation of a larger fluid tank for the TKS weeping wing system and more areas of the aircraft protected. The new installation was approved by the FAA in April 2009.[20][21][22]

Operational History

Ryan Campbell departing OSH on record attempt

An SR-22 was chosen for a 2013 world record attempt by 19-year-old Ryan Campbell to become the youngest pilot to fly solo around the world. On 7 September 2013 he landed back in Australia, making him the youngest pilot to navigate around the world at the time. The SR-22 "Spirit of the Sapphire Coast" was modified by removing three seats and adding a 160 U.S. gallons (610 L; 130 imp gal) fuselage tank for a total of 250 U.S. gallons (950 L; 210 imp gal) usable.[23]

Variants

SR22
Original version
SR22 G2
Improved variant
SR22 Turbo G2

In July 2006, Cirrus announced a turbo normalized SR22. Some initial models were identified as Signature Edition SE22 G2's, equipped with additional features including a unequally painted exterior, black leather seats and the signatures of Cirrus founders Dale and Alan Klapmeier on the cowling.[24]

SR22 G3
Improved variant for 2007 with increased fuel capacity from 81 to 92 U.S. gallons (310 to 350 L; 67 to 77 imp gal), lighter stronger carbon fiber wing spar and redesigned taller landing gear for better prop clearance.[25] Upgraded models, such as G3 GTS, with XM weather and audio, and airbag seatbelts on all four seats' shoulder harnesses.[26]
SR22T landing
SR22T
Introduced as a new model in June 2010, with a ground-boosted Continental TSIO-550-K producing 315 hp (235 kW). The engine has low compression pistons, producing a 7.5 to 1 compression ratio to allow the engine to run on lower octane fuel, 94UL.[27][28][29] The SR22T has an increased maximum cruise speed of 214 kn (396 km/h), and empty weight of 2,348 lb (1,065 kg) and a maximum operating altitude of 25,000 ft (7,620 m). This model also has a decreased useful load of 1,052 lb (477 kg) and reduced range of 1,046 nmi (1,937 km),[30] as well as a Hartzell three-Blade Lightweight Composite Prop.[31]
SR22TN
Version with a Tornado Alley turbo-normalizing kit added to the Continental IO-550-N engine producing 310 hp (231 kW).[27]
SR22 G5 and SR22T G5
On 17 January 2013 Cirrus Aircraft announced the fourth generation of the SR22 and SR22T (skipping G4 as a designation for the new version of the aircraft). New features included the maximum takeoff weight increased by 200 lb (91 kg), the previous optional 60/40 split back seat, ADS-B transponder and Garmin GFC700 autopilot were all made standard equipment. The wheel pants were redesigned and included an access door for the inflator valve. The aircraft's ballistic parachute was also improved and included a larger canopy to account for the higher takeoff weight, along with a more powerful rocket. The rocket firing was changed to a failsafe electronic ignition and could now be deployed at 140 knots (formerly 133 knots). Earlier versions used a pyrotechnic rocket ignition system. The speeds at which flaps can be deployed were increased to 150 knots for the first notch, 110 knots for the second notch of flaps, with an additional 3.5 degrees of extension. Fuel burn was slightly increased at cruise speeds, rate of climb was reduced, liftoff speed was increased to 80 knots from 72 knots and stall speed increased to 60 knots from 58 knots.[32][33]

Operators

ImagineAir Cirrus SR22

The aircraft is popular with air charter and small air taxi carriers as well as private individuals and companies. The largest current dedicated fleet operator is ImagineAir, which commenced operations in 2007. SATSair was formerly the largest operator with 26 aircraft; it commenced operations in 2004 and went out of business in 2009.[34][35]

Accidents and incidents

Between 2001 and May 2014 147 US-registered Cirrus SR22 aircraft crashed, resulting in 122 fatalities.[36]

In 2011 the accident record of the SR20 and 22 was the subject of a detailed examination by Aviation Consumer magazine. The review concluded that the series has an overall accident record that is better than average for light aircraft, exceeded only by the Diamond DA40 and DA42. However its fatal accident rate is much worse at 1.6 per 100,000 flight hours, placing it higher than the United States general aviation rate of 1.2 and higher than the Diamond DA40 (0.35), Cessna 172 (0.45), Diamond DA42 (0.54), Cessna 182 (0.69) and the Cessna 400 (1.0), despite the SR22's full aircraft parachute system.[37]

By 2014 the accident rate had been dramatically reduced, with a 2013 fatality rate of 1.01 per 100,000 flight hours. This was attributed to better training, particularly in when to deploy the ballistic parachute system.[38]

Specifications

SR22, 2003 model
Front view of Cirrus SR22

Data from Cirrus website[39] and The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage[40]

General characteristics

Performance

Avionics
Garmin Cirrus Perspective integrated avionics system including:[41]

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

References

  1. ↑ General Aviation Manufacturers Association (2014). "2013 General Aviation Statistical Databook & Industry Outlook" (PDF). Retrieved Jan 27, 2015.
  2. ↑ Cirrus Aircraft (2015). "SR22 Domestic Price List" (PDF). Retrieved 2014-12-23.
  3. ↑ General Aviation Manufacturers Association (January 2008). "2007 General Aviation Statistical Databook & Industry Outlook" (PDF). Retrieved 2 July 2010.
  4. ↑ Federal Aviation Administration (May 2008). "TYPE CERTIFICATE DATA SHEET NO. A00009CH Revision 13" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-10-14.
  5. ↑ "Cirrus Aircraft". Cirrus Aircraft. Retrieved 2013-05-29.
  6. ↑ "The All-New 2014 Generation 5 Cirrus". October 2013. Retrieved 2013-11-16.
  7. ↑ Goyer, Robert (October 2013). "New Cirrus SR22s Introduced for 2014". Retrieved 2013-11-16.
  8. ↑ Durden, Rick (21 February 2014). "2013: A Good Year for Cirrus". AVweb. Retrieved 24 February 2014.
  9. ↑ Cirrus Aircraft News (February 11, 2015). "Cirrus Aircraft Deliveries in 2014 Drive Strongest Performance in Six Years". Retrieved March 1, 2015.
  10. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "SR22 features & options". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  11. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "SR22 performance". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  12. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "turbo normalizing". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  13. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "the speed you need". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  14. ↑ Cox, Bill (20 July 2010). "Cirrus SR22T: Turbo Without the STC". Plane & Pilot. Retrieved 3 March 2012.
  15. ↑ Media Fly-By. "Cirrus Soars at First Flight Celebration". Retrieved 2015-02-02.
  16. ↑ Goyer, Robert: Avidyne Glass for Steam Gauge Cirrus Airplanes, Flying magazine February 2008, pages 18-19. Hachette Filipacchi US Media
  17. ↑ Cirrus Design (2008). "Cirruis Perspective by Garmin". Retrieved 2008-10-25.
  18. ↑ John Croft (2009). "The Third Generation Cirrus SR22 is Blazing a Trail". Retrieved 2014-10-09.
  19. ↑ Robert Goyer (2010). "Envelope Protection Comes to GA". Retrieved 2014-10-19.
  20. ↑ Niles, Russ (January 2009). "Cirrus Introduces FIKI, Announces Layoffs". Retrieved 2009-01-12.
  21. ↑ Cirrus Design (January 2009). "Cirrus Aircraft Announces Known Ice Protection Availability For Sr22 And Turbo Aircraft Models". Archived from the original on 8 July 2011. Retrieved 2009-01-12.
  22. ↑ Grady, Mary (April 2009). "Cirrus Announces FAA OK For FIKI System, Update on Jet". Retrieved 2009-04-13.
  23. ↑ "Ryan Campbell world record attempt". Retrieved 2 September 2013.
  24. ↑ Grady, Mary (December 2006). "Aviation: Pilot Program". Retrieved 30 January 2015.
  25. ↑ Cirrus Aircraft (2008). "G3 What's New". Archived from the original on 29 March 2008. Retrieved 20 September 2007.
  26. ↑ http://www.flydaretodream.com/#!n519cb/c1n58
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 Bertorelli, Paul (June 2010). "Cirrus Rolls Out a New Turbocharged Model". Retrieved 21 June 2010.
  28. ↑ Van West, Jeff (June 2010). "Cirrus' New Turbo: Baffling". Retrieved 24 June 2010.
  29. ↑ "Aviation Fuel Future". Retrieved 3 July 2012.
  30. ↑ "Cirrus Designs SR22 Turbo Specifications". Retrieved 16 July 2011.
  31. ↑ "SR22T Price Sheet" (PDF). Retrieved 16 July 2011.
  32. ↑ "Cirrus Launches Generation 5 SR22". Retrieved 17 January 2013.
  33. ↑ "Generation 5 Cirrus SR22". Retrieved 17 May 2013.
  34. ↑ Imagine Air Jet Services (2005). "Company Background". Retrieved 2009-11-04.
  35. ↑ Niles, Russ (October 2009). "SATSAir Shuts Down". Retrieved 2009-10-26.
  36. ↑ NTSB (2014). "NTSB Database & Synopses-Query". Retrieved 2014-05-10. Nb.-Make=Cirrus, Model=SR22, Registration="N"(US only)
  37. ↑ AVweb staff (20 December 2011). "Aviation Consumer: Cirrus Safety Record Just Average". AVweb. Retrieved 22 December 2011.
  38. ↑ Bertorelli, Paul (10 April 2014). "Cirrus Reports Dramatic Accident Reduction". Avweb. Retrieved 14 April 2014.
  39. ↑ Cirrus Design (n.d.). "Specifications". Retrieved 2010-01-16.
  40. ↑ Lednicer, David (October 2007). "Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". Retrieved 2010-01-15.
  41. ↑ Garmin (2014). ""Pilot’s Guide for the Cirrus SR20/SR22/SR22T"" (PDF). Retrieved 2015-02-28.

External links

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