Cirrus Introduces a New Class Leader in Load Carrying Capability for 2013

Generation 5: "The Most Cirrus Ever"

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Jan 17, 2013, 12:00 ET

DULUTH, Minn., Jan. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cirrus Aircraft today introduced its new SR-Series aircraft lineup for 2013, which is dominated by an order of magnitude increase in load carrying capability for the best-selling SR22 and SR22T. Increasing the certified gross weight to 3600 lbs. (1,633 kg) for both SR22 and SR22T, this new utility and flexibility allows an extra person and substantial extra baggage or cargo all while carrying more fuel in both of these 5-seat aircraft.

The changes for 2013 make the SR22 and SR22T the highest in-class useful load aircraft available today. A standard SR22 not only achieves true "four-seat airplane that can carry four people and full fuel," but SR22 and SR22T models now have five seats total and can carry all five FAA-standard passengers non-stop and in comfort over 700 nautical miles.

"Innovation is the unique hallmark that makes Cirrus aircraft safer, easier to fly, higher performing and more versatile year after year. Given that record of design achievement, the number one request we receive from Cirrus owners and prospects is increased load carrying capability. Today we are very excited to announce our fifth generation airplane, the 2013 Cirrus SR22 and SR22T, and deliver even more mission flexibility in the most preferred airplane in general aviation," noted Todd Simmons, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing at Cirrus Aircraft. "A new standard has been set by our Engineering team that has worked tirelessly to certify this airplane to 3600 lbs. gross weight and deliver an uncompromising new generation of Cirrus SR-Series aircraft."

Generation 5 is the name given to the airframe change required to achieve the step-change improvement for the 2013 SR22/SR22T. The entire aircraft design was analyzed from spinner-to-tail and many parts and systems reengineered and redesigned to accommodate the increased airframe load, aerodynamic improvements, improved flight performance and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System™ (CAPS.) Substantial testing, including a new series of CAPS parachute test drops, was conducted for validation. Significant changes for 2013 have been made to the CAPS system including an increased canopy size, a new rocket extraction system that propels the parachute upon activation, an advanced technology electrical rocket igniter and lighter and stronger construction materials. Other airframe upgrades included strengthening the carbon fiber, single part wing spar, the landing gear and a new flap system allowing extension to the first position at 150 knots.

This redesigned 2013 SR22/SR22T, the fifth generation of Cirrus aircraft, adds a load carrying exclamation point to recent Cirrus innovations including: Cirrus Perspective™ avionics by Garmin®; Cirrus Known Ice Protection™; Perspective Global Connect™ satellite communications; 60/40 FlexSeating™; and the totally unique Cirrus Airframe Parachute System™ (CAPS). The SR22/SR22T has been the best selling GA aircraft now for over a decade and the 2013 models now earn the moniker "The Most Cirrus Ever."

For 2013 Cirrus customers can also expect the new Generation 5 Vision Inspired Special Edition SR22T. This Special Edition aircraft - inspired by the upcoming Cirrus Vision SF50 Personal Jet and modern automotive styling – sports a striking new exterior ramp presence and pays tribute to the unique look and feel of the highly anticipated Cirrus Jet.

Deliveries of the 2013 aircraft are already underway.

For more information please visit www.cirrusaircraft.com.

About Cirrus Aircraft
Cirrus Aircraft is a recognized leader in general aviation. Its all-composite line of personal aircraft — the SR20, SR22 and the turbocharged SR22T — incorporate innovative and advanced performance, electronic and safety technologies, including Cirrus Perspective™ by Garmin® avionics and the unique Cirrus Airframe Parachute System™ (CAPS). To date, total time on the worldwide Cirrus Aircraft SR-series fleet surpassed five million flight hours with 62 lives saved to date as a direct result of CAPS being a standard safety feature on all Cirrus aircraft. The Cirrus Vision SF50 jet, with over 500 production positions reserved, will provide a new personal and regional business transportation solution: the personal jet. All Cirrus aircraft are made in the U.S. with a direct sales force in North America and authorized sales centers covering export markets in 60 countries around the world. Cirrus Aircraft is wholly owned by China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co., Ltd (CAIGA). For additional information on Cirrus and its products please visit cirrusaircraft.com.

SOURCE Cirrus Aircraft