Summary The Cirrus SR22 can achieve up to 1,100 NM range with careful fuel management and extended flight time, testing pilot endurance. The SR22T has a 25,000 ft service ceiling, requiring supplemental oxygen above 10,000 ft, ensuring safety for high-altitude operations. The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) enhances safety, with 129 deployments resulting in 265 survivors and a reduced fatal accident rate.
The Cirrus SR22 is a single-engine, four- or five-seat composite aircraft developed by Cirrus Aircraft , based in Duluth, Minnesota. The SR-22 is not limited to making circuits in the traffic pattern; it is a serious long-range cross-country machine. The Cirrus SR22 operating manual states a maximum range of approximately 1,049 NM, with reserves cruising at 65% power.
This range can vary slightly depending on the specific model and power settings. For example, the turbocharged SR22T has a maximum range of 1,021 NM with a 45-minute reserve cruising at 85% power. Under optimal conditions and careful fuel management, the SR22 can achieve up to 1,100 NM—an impressive feat for a light single aircraft.
However, flying the plane to its maximum range will take approximately 5.7 hours, testing the pilot's and passengers' endurance. The SR-22T achieves its long range due to a service ceiling of 25,000 ft.
The aircraft is a non-pressurized airplane, so supplemental oxygen is required when operating above 10,000 ft. The SR22T is equipped with a sophisticated built-in oxygen system to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilot and passengers at high altitudes. The Cirrus SR22 T's supplemental oxygen system is a continuous-flow type.
This system provides a steady oxygen flow to the pilot and passengers, essential for maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream at high altitudes where atmospheric pressure is much lower. The Precise Flight oxygen system The continuous-flow system includes nasal cannulas and oxygen masks. Cannulas may be used for altitudes up to 18,000 feet.
However, oxygen masks are required to ensure sufficient oxygen delivery for altitudes up to the maximum operating altitude of 25,000 feet. The built-in oxygen system for the Cirrus SR22T, such as the Precise Flight Fixed Oxygen System , is designed to be convenient and high-capacity. It supports the pilot and up to three passengers, with some configurations available for five occupants.
This system is integrated into the aircraft and provides a reliable source of supplemental oxygen during high-altitude operations. Origin and development of the SR-22 Cirrus Aircraft introduced the SR-22 in 2001 as an upgrade from the SR20, featuring a larger wing, higher fuel capacity, and a more powerful engine. The SR22 has become the best-selling general aviation aircraft every year since 2003 and is known for its innovative safety features, including the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) .
The SR-22's technology and advanced features are not inexpensive. A new aircraft can cost more than $1 million. A recently listed 2022 model with 375 hours TTAF cost $949,900.
Powerplant The SR22 is powered by the Continental IO-550-N engine, producing 310 horsepower. The turbocharged version, the SR22T, uses a Continental TSIO-550-K engine, which produces 315 horsepower and allows the aircraft to achieve higher altitudes. These engines provide robust performance, allowing the aircraft to reach impressive speeds and altitudes.
Speed The SR22's maximum cruise speed is 183 knots, while the SR22T can reach up to 213 knots at 25,000 feet. The SR22's typical cruise speed is around 180 knots. Overall performance: Maximum range: 1,049 nm (standard SR22), 1,021 NM (SR22T) Service ceiling: 17,500 ft (standard SR22), 25,000 ft (SR22T) Rate of climb: 1,203 fpm for SR22T Stall speed: 60 knots Takeoff distance over 50 ft obstacle: 2,080 ft Landing distance over 50 ft obstacle: 2,535 ft This popular plane features a life-saving piece of equipment.
Unique safety features One of the standout features of the Cirrus SR22 is its emphasis on safety. The aircraft is equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). In an emergency, the pilot can activate the whole-plane parachute recovery system to bring the airplane safely to the ground.
This system has significantly contributed to the aircraft's market success and reputation for safety. The CAPS system does save lives As of March 16, 2024, the CAPS had been deployed 129 times , resulting in 265 survivors. Thus, the system has been highly effective in saving lives during emergencies.
However, there have been fatalities associated with its use. While CAPS has significantly reduced the odds of fatal accidents, there have been instances where fatalities occurred despite the deployment of the parachute. In a study evaluating the effectiveness of CAPS, out of 268 accidents involving Cirrus aircraft, 82 of 211, 38.
9% of non-deployed CAPS accidents were fatal, compared to 8 of 57 or 14.0% for deployed CAPS accidents. The use of CAPS significantly reduces the likelihood of fatal outcomes in the event of an accident.
It is important to note that no occupant fatalities occurred when deployed within the certified speed and altitude parameters. However, due to anomalies, there have been a few unsuccessful deployments within those parameters. The CAPS system has proven to be a revolutionary safety feature in general aviation, resulting in a significant survival advantage in emergencies.
Other safety features include: Enhanced vision systems are available in some models to improve situational awareness. TKS ice protection system: Provides anti-icing capabilities, allowing for safer flight in known icing conditions. Advanced avionics: The Cirrus Perspective Touch+ by Garmin offers sophisticated flight displays, touchscreen controllers, and split-screen capabilities to reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness.
Stall warning and protection: The SR22 includes systems to alert the pilot of an impending stall and assist in recovery. The Cirrus SR22 is a highly capable and popular general aviation aircraft; over 8,000 aircraft have been produced. It is known for its performance, comfort, and innovative safety features.
Its range, speed, and advanced avionics make it a preferred choice for private pilots and flight training organizations worldwide. The SR22 is the most-produced General Aviation aircraft of the 21st century..
