The SR22 is one of the most popular small planes in history. And, if you’re new to the world of aviation, then you will eventually, undoubtedly come across the Cirrus name, an industry-leading aircraft designer and manufacturer. More so than its smaller counterpart, the Cirrus SR20, this plane offers superior performance, reliability and safety compared to others in the small plane category. So, why should you buy a Cirrus SR22? Let’s take a look.
About The Cirrus SR22
A small, composite, single piston-engine airplane, the Cirrus SR22 was first introduced to the general aviation world in 2001, and rapidly became one of the most-produced small airplanes in the world.
Learn more about the history of Cirrus Aircraft.
The SR22 is a step up from the entry-level Cirrus aircraft, SR20. Both planes routinely make the top of the list in terms of general aircraft sales. Faster, more luxurious and with the same great safety features, among other amenities, this plane is an ideal buy for someone in the market for a piston-engine airplane.
Speed & Engine
Even though the SR22 looks nearly identical to the SR20, the former offers a higher level of performance thanks to its larger, 310-horsepower Continental IO-550-N engine. This nose-mounted engine offers improved speed while flying, capable of reaching 184 knots. Plus, the 81-gallon wet-wing fuel storage system provides enough capacity for long-haul flights.
Distance
One of the main reasons why you’d want to buy a Cirrus SR22, at least versus an SR20, is that you’re able to go farther, which is great if you’re doing a lot of long-distance flying. With the added power, fuel capacity and speed, your range gets bumped up to over 1,100 nautical miles, allowing you to travel greater distances at a faster pace.
Side-Yoke Steering
Cirrus SR aircraft are the only production models in its class to include its unique way of steering — also known as the “side yoke”. This mechanism combines aspects of both side-stick flight controls and a traditional yoke handle. The benefits to this are added panel space, lowered structural weight and more control through your aerial maneuvers. Even though it can be confusing to some novice pilots at first, once you get over the learning curve, this system makes the SR22 one of the more fun small aircraft to fly.
Aircraft Connectivity
Cirrus has built a small aircraft for the 21st century, thanks to a suite of connectivity features. Get the new Cirrus IQ app and gain real-time remote access to your aircraft no matter where you are. This allows you to monitor maintenance needs, security and other aspects of your plane. Bluetooth Global Connect also gives you in-flight text messaging and phone service, so you can easily stay in touch with people back on the ground.
Spacious Cabin & Impressive Avionics
One of the biggest selling points of an SR22 is its spacious interior, supplying plenty of legroom for both the pilot and three to four passengers, while offering a useful load capacity of about 600 pounds. Plus, with its all-glass, dual panel system, integrated with Garmin G1000 Perspective + Avionics suite, you have all the essential flight components right at your fingertips. Add-on other interior features to make the trip that much more comfortable, like air conditioning and an oxygen system.
Game-Changing Safety Features
Cirrus was a pioneer in small aircraft safety with the introduction of CAPS — the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System. This innovative technology equipped the SR22 with its own parachute, which would safely lower the plane to the ground in case of spin-outs, engine failure or other emergencies. Like the SR20, the SR22 also features CAPS, which is a major selling point for those looking for that extra bit of reassurance in the air.
Take-off, Climb & Landing
Taking off in an SR22 requires 1,082 feet of ground roll, or how far the aircraft has to travel before going airborne. Once in the air, the SR22 can climb at a rate of 1,270 feet per minute, almost double that of its predecessor. Coming in for a landing, the aircraft requires 1,178 feet after it touches down until its fully stopped.
Fixed-Landing Gear
While you may not think of fixed-landing gear as the sleekest, sexiest option, there are many reasons why you’d want to stay away from retractable mechanisms. Not only does retractable landing gear malfunction every so often, requiring expensive mechanical repairs and upkeep, but there’s no risk of your landing gear not coming down while you’re in the air — that wouldn’t be a fun landing, for you or your wallet.
Sleek Exterior
There’s no mistaking a Cirrus-designed aircraft when you’re on the runway. With their sleek, iconic look, available in a number of different exterior designs across three “collections” (Carbon, Platinum, Rhodium), plus further customizations for those who can afford it, you can achieve the head-turning look you want. The recently added Spectra Wingtip lighting supplies vivid brightness and includes wig-wag functionality, providing the plane with an even more noticeable presence, at any hour.
Is the Cirrus SR22 the Right Airplane for You? Make a Test Flight
If you’re looking for an exciting, safe aircraft that’s a step up from entry-level options, the SR22 may be the perfect fit. While you may be on the fence about buying a Cirrus SR22, 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.
