Cirrus SR22

SR22
Role Civil utility aircraft
National origin United States
Manufacturer Cirrus Aircraft
Produced 2001–present
Number built 4,365 through 2013[1]
Unit cost
US$499,900 (base price, 2015)[2]
Developed from Cirrus SR20

The Cirrus SR22 is a single-engine four- or five-seat composite aircraft built from 2001 by Cirrus Aircraft of Duluth, Minnesota.

It is a development of the Cirrus SR20, with a larger wing, higher fuel capacity, and a more powerful, 310-horsepower (231 kW) engine.

The SR22 has been the world's best-selling single-engine, four-seat aircraft every year since 2004.[3]

It is equipped with a whole-plane emergency recovery parachute system, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). This has contributed to its market success and has given it the name "the plane with the parachute".[4][5][6][7][8]

Design and development

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

The SR22, certified in November 2000, is a higher-powered version of the earlier SR20. The SR22 is a low wing cantilever monoplane of composite construction, featuring fixed (non-retractable) tricycle landing gear with 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.

The Cirrus SR22 is equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), a whole-plane parachute recovery system capable of lowering the entire aircraft to the ground in an emergency.[9]

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 manufacturer introduced the SR22 G5 (Generation 5) (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.[10] The G5 received only minor changes for 2014, including integrated LED lighting and high performance Beringer brakes.[11][12]

In 2014, the SR22 and SR22T were the best selling four-to-five-seat fixed wing aircraft in the world, and had been for twelve years in a row.[13][14]

Turbocharged models

Cirrus introduced the "SR22 Turbo" in 2006, which features a Tornado Alley turbonormalizing upgrade kit, factory installed under a Supplemental Type Certificate. It features twin turbonormalizers and twin intercoolers.[15] The conversion also includes built-in oxygen and a Hartzell three-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).[16][17][18]

In 2010, Cirrus introduced the SR22T. This used a new engine, the Continental TSIO-550K, which produces 315 hp (235 kW) with a 7.5:1 compression ratio and can run on 94 octane fuel.[19]

Glass cockpit

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

SR22s and SR20s built before 2003 were equipped with traditional analog instruments and a 10" Multi-function display (MFD). In February 2003, Cirrus began offering SR22s with the Avidyne Entegra primary flight display (PFD), making the plane the first of its kind to come with a glass cockpit.[20][21] Later that year, they became standard equipment on all SR-series aircraft.[22] 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.[23]

On 22 May 2008, Cirrus and Garmin revealed a new cockpit, Cirrus Perspective (by Garmin).[24] Both cockpits were available for a period (the Avidyne cockpit was initially standard equipment). Today Cirrus offers only the Perspective panel.

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.[25]

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 included advanced flight envelope protection that could stabilize the aircraft with the push of a button, to avoid spiral from developing.[26]

Flight into known icing

Cirrus completed testing for flight into known icing conditions (FIKI) on 12 January 2009. The equipment change involved installing a larger fluid tank for the TKS Ice Protection System and protecting more areas of the aircraft. The FAA approved the new installation in April 2009.[27][28][29]

Operational History

Ryan Campbell departing OSH on record attempt

Robert Goyer of Flying magazine wrote in a 2012 review that the Cirrus SR22 "is the most sophisticated single-engine civilian airplane ever built and by a long shot."[30]

Ryan Campbell, who, in 2013, became the youngest pilot to fly solo around the world, used an SR22. On 7 September 2013, he landed back in Australia. His 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.[31]

As of 2015, the SR22 series has deployed the parachute recovery system 53 times carrying 107 survivors.[32]

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.[33]

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.[34] Upgraded models, such as G3 GTS, with XM weather and audio, and airbag seatbelts on all four seats' shoulder harnesses.[35]
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.[36][37][38] 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),[39] as well as a Hartzell three-Blade Lightweight Composite Prop.[40]
SR22TN
Version with a Tornado Alley turbo-normalizing kit added to the Continental IO-550-N engine producing 310 hp (231 kW).[36]
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 a 200 lb (91 kg) increase in the maximum takeoff weight, and some previous options—60/40 split back seat, ADS-B transponder, and Garmin GFC700 autopilot—became standard equipment. The wheel pants were redesigned, and included an access door for the inflator valve. Cirrus improved the aircraft's ballistic parachute using a larger canopy to account for the higher takeoff weight and a more powerful rocket. The rocket firing changed to a fail-safe electronic ignition and could now be deployed at 140 knots (formerly 133 knots). Earlier versions used a pyrotechnic rocket ignition system. They increased the airspeeds at which flaps can be deployed to 150 knots for the first notch and 110 knots for the second notch, and added another 3.5 degrees of extension. Fuel burn slightly increased at cruise speeds, rate of climb was reduced, liftoff speed increased to 80 knots from 72 knots and stall speed increased to 60 knots from 58 knots.[41][42]

Operators

ImagineAir Cirrus SR22

The aircraft is used by flying schools, 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 began operation in 2004 and went out of business in 2009.[43][44] In 2015 Emirates purchased a fleet of 22 aircraft for training purposes.[45]

Accidents and incidents

Between 2001 and May 2014 147 US-registered Cirrus SR22 aircraft crashed, resulting in 122 fatalities.[46]

In 2011, the accident record of the SR20 and SR22 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—which places 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.[47]

By 2014, the accident rate was dramatically reduced to 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.[48]

By 2015 the accident rate continued to decrease, with a 2014 fatal rate of .42 per 100,000 flight hours, making it one of the best safety records in the industry. This marked the fewest fatalities in a single year for Cirrus since 2001, and the first year where the number of CAPS deployments (12) exceeded the number of fatal accidents (3).[49][50][4]

Specifications

SR22, 2003 model
Front view of Cirrus SR22

Data from Cirrus website[51] and The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage[52]

General characteristics

Performance

Avionics
Garmin Cirrus Perspective integrated avionics system including:[53]

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. 1 2 Anders, Clark (22 May 2015). "Cirrus SR22: The Plane with the Parachute". Disciples of Flight. Retrieved 11 June 2015.
  5. ↑ Cirrusaircraft.com. "Smart Safety". Retrieved 2015-11-02.
  6. ↑ Fallows, James (January 2015). "The Parachute That Saved a Plane". The Atlantic. Retrieved 2015-11-02.
  7. ↑ Goyer, Robert (August 2010). "After Ten Years, Cirrus Chute Controversy Persists". Flying. Retrieved 2015-11-02.
  8. ↑ Robert Goyer (2011). "10 Ways that the SR22 Changed Flying".
  9. ↑ Federal Aviation Administration (May 2008). "TYPE CERTIFICATE DATA SHEET NO. A00009CH Revision 13" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-10-14.
  10. ↑ "Cirrus Aircraft". Cirrus Aircraft. Retrieved 2013-05-29.
  11. ↑ "The All-New 2014 Generation 5 Cirrus". October 2013. Retrieved 2013-11-16.
  12. ↑ Goyer, Robert (October 2013). "New Cirrus SR22s Introduced for 2014". Retrieved 2013-11-16.
  13. ↑ Durden, Rick (21 February 2014). "2013: A Good Year for Cirrus". AVweb. Retrieved 24 February 2014.
  14. ↑ Cirrus Aircraft News (February 11, 2015). "Cirrus Aircraft Deliveries in 2014 Drive Strongest Performance in Six Years". Retrieved March 1, 2015.
  15. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "SR22 features & options". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  16. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "SR22 performance". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  17. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "turbo normalizing". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  18. ↑ Cirrus Design (2007). "the speed you need". Retrieved 2007-11-14.
  19. ↑ Cox, Bill (20 July 2010). "Cirrus SR22T: Turbo Without the STC". Plane & Pilot. Retrieved 3 March 2012.
  20. ↑ Media Fly-By. "Cirrus Soars at First Flight Celebration". Retrieved 2015-02-02.
  21. ↑ National Transportation Safety Board. "Introduction of Glass Cockpit Avionics into Light Aircraft" (PDF). Retrieved 2015-09-11.
  22. ↑ Press Release (2003). "Avidyne's Flightmax Entegra Integrated Flight Deck Selected By Cirrus Design For SR20 And New SRV Aircraft". Retrieved 2015-09-08.
  23. ↑ Goyer, Robert: Avidyne Glass for Steam Gauge Cirrus Airplanes, Flying magazine February 2008, pages 18-19. Hachette Filipacchi US Media
  24. ↑ Cirrus Design (2008). "Cirruis Perspective by Garmin". Retrieved 2008-10-25.
  25. ↑ John Croft (2009). "The Third Generation Cirrus SR22 is Blazing a Trail". Retrieved 2014-10-09.
  26. ↑ Robert Goyer (2010). "Envelope Protection Comes to GA". Retrieved 2014-10-19.
  27. ↑ Niles, Russ (January 2009). "Cirrus Introduces FIKI, Announces Layoffs". Retrieved 2009-01-12.
  28. ↑ 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.
  29. ↑ Grady, Mary (April 2009). "Cirrus Announces FAA OK For FIKI System, Update on Jet". Retrieved 2009-04-13.
  30. ↑ "2012 Cirrus SR22". Retrieved 26 December 2015.
  31. ↑ "Ryan Campbell world record attempt". Retrieved 2 September 2013.
  32. ↑ http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/oshkosh-cirrus-enters-final-stretch-of-sf50-testing-414828/
  33. ↑ Grady, Mary (December 2006). "Aviation: Pilot Program". Retrieved 30 January 2015.
  34. ↑ Cirrus Aircraft (2008). "G3 What's New". Archived from the original on 29 March 2008. Retrieved 20 September 2007.
  35. ↑ http://www.flydaretodream.com/#!n519cb/c1n58
  36. 1 2 Bertorelli, Paul (June 2010). "Cirrus Rolls Out a New Turbocharged Model". Retrieved 21 June 2010.
  37. ↑ Van West, Jeff (June 2010). "Cirrus' New Turbo: Baffling". Retrieved 24 June 2010.
  38. ↑ "Aviation Fuel Future". Retrieved 3 July 2012.
  39. ↑ "Cirrus Designs SR22 Turbo Specifications". Retrieved 16 July 2011.
  40. ↑ "SR22T Price Sheet" (PDF). Retrieved 16 July 2011.
  41. ↑ "Cirrus Launches Generation 5 SR22". Retrieved 17 January 2013.
  42. ↑ "Generation 5 Cirrus SR22". Retrieved 17 May 2013.
  43. ↑ Imagine Air Jet Services (2005). "Company Background". Retrieved 2009-11-04.
  44. ↑ Niles, Russ (October 2009). "SATSAir Shuts Down". Retrieved 2009-10-26.
  45. ↑ Pope, Steven (November 2015). "Emirates Selects Cirrus SR22 for Pilot Training". Retrieved 2015-11-12.
  46. ↑ NTSB (2014). "NTSB Database & Synopses-Query". Retrieved 2014-05-10. Nb.-Make=Cirrus, Model=SR22, Registration="N"(US only)
  47. ↑ AVweb staff (20 December 2011). "Aviation Consumer: Cirrus Safety Record Just Average". AVweb. Retrieved 22 December 2011.
  48. ↑ Bertorelli, Paul (10 April 2014). "Cirrus Reports Dramatic Accident Reduction". Avweb. Retrieved 14 April 2014.
  49. ↑ Zimmerman, John (11 February 2015). "Fatal Cirrus crashes are way down – thank the parachute". Air Facts. Retrieved 11 June 2015.
  50. ↑ Beach, Rick (1 July 2014). "Mid-Year 2014 Update on Improved Cirrus accident rates". Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association. Retrieved 11 June 2015.
  51. ↑ Cirrus Design (n.d.). "Specifications". Retrieved 2010-01-16.
  52. ↑ Lednicer, David (October 2007). "Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". Retrieved 2010-01-15.
  53. ↑ Garmin (2014). "Pilot’s Guide for the Cirrus SR20/SR22/SR22T" (PDF). Retrieved 2015-02-28.

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