Cirrus Aircraft SR20
Once, not long ago, the Cirrus Aircraft SR20 was the best selling single-engine aircraft, eclipsed only by its newer counterpart, the Cirrus Aircraft SR22, for good reason. The SR20 is small, yet quick and comfortable, and feature-loaded design has shaped the general aviation industry for the past two decades. Popular among flying hobbyists as well as businesses and flight schools alike, the Cirrus SR20 is a champion among its class. If reliability, cost-effectiveness and fun are on your list of must-haves when shopping for an airplane, this piston-engine propeller option may be the ideal choice. Here are a few reasons why you should consider buying a Cirrus SR20.
Fly in Comfort in Cirrus SR20
Although introduced as a four-seater, there are now five-seater models of the SR20 available, maximizing cabin space for passengers or extra cargo. Known as 60/40 FlexSeating, you get a wider back seat, anchored by a 60/40 fold-down split for either passengers or cargo. All leather seats are stylish, durable and easy to care for. And Cirrus took care of all the little details; you’ll find USB charging ports, cup holders and storage pockets logically implemented throughout and for both pilot and passengers. And, say goodbye to steaming hot cockpits with recently implemented air conditioning.
Small Plane Cirrus SR20, Big Performance
The Cirrus SR20 features a 200-horsepower Continental IO-360-ES, a small-yet-efficient option that is surprisingly fast. Thanks to tuned induction and exhaust, this six-cylinder engine maximizes all available horsepower, reaching cruising speeds of 155 knots. These machines have a fuel capacity of 60.5 gallons, which will last about six hours operating at 75 percent power in standard conditions — giving you plenty of time to cover some ground (or air). On take off, expect a climb rate of 781 feet per minute.
Garmin-Integrated Flight Panel
Throughout the history of the SR20, the company transitioned flight panels between Arnav, Avidyne and finally to Garmin Cirrus Perspective in 2008. The final transition marked a huge turn in Cirrus’ cockpit avionics. Today, one of the best features of this airplane is its dual, primary flight display and multi-function displays. These are where all communication, navigation, weather, traffic information and so much more come through on 10-inch or 12-inch interactive screens. A fun fact — this panel setup was so successful that thousands of small aircraft have now adopted flat-panel, Garmin-based systems.
A First in Small Aircraft Safety
The SR20 was the first general aviation airplane to successfully equip a parachute so it could land safely in the event of a loss in control, accident or other emergency. Known as CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System), this large parachute ejects from the upper body and allows the light, all-composite plane to come down softly at 1,500 feet per minute. Note that the chute requires a repack every 10 years.
Fun Flying with the Cirrus SR20’s Unique Controls
A big part of what makes the Cirrus SR20 great is its unique steering system. Rather than traditional yoke handles, the SR series is the only prop plane to use a system commonly known as a “side yoke”. It’s a combination of sidestick and yoke that opens up space on the panel, cuts structural weight and gives you more leverage to nail precision aerials. Although it’s commonly the most intimidating aspect to those first stepping foot in a SR20 cockpit, it is actually intuitive, practical and easy to learn.
Cost-Effective Fixed Landing Gear
You may be hesitant to mutter the words “fixed gear” and “innovative” in the same sentence, but a perceived weakness of the SR20 is actually one of its strengths, and Cirrus wanted it that way to save customers money in the long run. Here, you’re saving on insurance (a policy that has to cover belly landings is going to increase the amount of coverage you’re paying for), plus with no landing gear mechanisms, you’ll certainly save on maintenance.
A Piston Plane Built for the 21st Century
Even though the plane was introduced in 1999, that doesn’t mean its cockpit isn’t fitted with the best technology. And in 2020, connectivity is an essential part of life, so your airplane’s amenities should reflect that fact. From bluetooth to a recently released app, Cirrus IQ, which allows remote aircraft connection, including fuel, oxygen, battery and oil levels, among a host of other useful features. Check out other handy digital tools, like Global Connect phone, text messaging and weather, along with a wireless aviation database system.
Is the Cirrus SR20 for You? Make a Test Flight
If you’re searching for a fun, affordable and industry-leading option, you can’t go wrong with the Cirrus SR20. Plus, since 1999, the company has developed seven other variants, and introduced further product lines like the SR22 which provides a slight upgrade in performance capability — so you can fine-tune the amenities to suit your unique needs. While you may be on the fence about buying a Cirrus SR20, the only way to truly know whether this is the plane for you is to experience what it’s like behind the side yoke. Inflight Pilot Training is a certified partner of Cirrus, and has a fleet of these planes ready to go for rental or instructional purposes.
Get in touch with our team today to learn more about what it takes to soar through the sky in one of the finest small aircraft around! For additional information on Inflight rentals and training programs, contact us today or call (952) 698-3000.