Summary
- The SR22 G7 reaches a max speed of 213 knots, comparable to the speed of bullet trains.
- The aircraft’s interior is sporty, seating up to four individuals comfortably.
- Over 7,000 SR22s were delivered, highlighting its popularity in general aviation.
The SR22 is a famous single-engine aircraft manufactured by Cirrus Aircraft. Since the program’s launch in 2001, this model has seen many variants over the past 23 years. The most current variant, which will be the focus of today’s article, is the G7.
Just how fast can it go?
General Aviation enthusiasts will find the SR22 G7 to be a remarkably high-performance aircraft. It boasts a maximum speed of 213 knots (approximately 245 mph), comparable to the speed of most bullet trains in Europe and Japan.
For those unfamiliar with bullet trains, this speed is akin to that of an Aston Martin Vantage car; in other words, it can be considered sporty.
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The cabin: what is it like inside?
The aircraft’s interior is inspired by sports cars, offering a sleek and modern environment. It can seat up to four individuals, with one or two pilots positioned in the front and room for two passengers in the rear.
While it may not offer the same spaciousness as bigger general aviation aircraft such as the Cessna Caravan, it does provide enough room for comfortable travel with family or friends on short local trips.
An aircraft in constant evolution.
The SR22, certified in November 2000, represents a more potent iteration of the preceding SR20 model. Its production commenced in 2001. This low-wing cantilever monoplane is constructed using composite materials. It is equipped with fixed (non-retractable) tricycle landing gear featuring a catering nose wheel, with steering facilitated through differential braking on the main wheels. Power is supplied by a 310 hp (231 kW) Continental IO-550-N piston engine mounted in the nose. Access to the four-seat cabin is provided through doors on both sides of the fuselage.
Photo: Adam Loader | Shutterstock
In 2004, the company introduced the SR22 G2 (Generation 2), which featured airframe modifications, including changes to the fuselage. Three years later, in 2007, the SR22 G3 (Generation 3) was unveiled, distinguished by modified wing and landing gear configurations. These upgrades further improved the aircraft’s performance and capabilities, marking significant advancements in its design and functionality.
Photo: Rudzenka | Shutterstock.com
In 2017, the company unveiled the SR22 G6 (Generation 6), featuring significant upgrades to the avionics and new navigation lighting. In January 2022, Cirrus announced further enhancements to the G6 SR-series, including a 9 knots (17 km/h) increase in cruise speed, improvements to the mobile IQ app, the addition of USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and more.
Today, it’s the G7, which debuted at the Oshkosh 2024 convention.
A true best-seller
Since its debut in 2001, Cirrus Aircraft has delivered over 7,000 units of the SR22, establishing it as an iconic and highly desired aircraft in general aviation. The most recent iteration, revealed in early 2024, has captured considerable interest and praise for its advanced features and capabilities, making it a standout attraction at the 2024 Oshkosh (EAA AirVenture) event.
Interesting uses of SR22s
Initially designed for civilian use, it has been adopted for various specialized roles by different organizations:
- The French Air and Space Force uses six SR22 aircraft for training.
- The Royal Saudi Air Force purchased 25 SR22s in 2013 to replace its older Cessna 172s as the primary training aircraft at the King Faisal Air Academy.
- The Minnesota State Patrol operates a specially modified SR22, the “Cirrus Perception,” for law enforcement duties, including surveillance, search-and-rescue missions, and other operations.
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Safety at the heart of every Cirrus plane
Cirrus Aircraft and Ballistic Recovery Systems (BRS) collaborated during the 1990s to develop a groundbreaking safety feature known as the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). This innovative integrated safety net was specifically engineered to address critical situations where traditional methods might prove insufficient. CAPS is a comprehensive whole-plane parachute recovery system conceptualized to significantly enhance the safety standards for Cirrus Aircraft’s range of light aircraft, including the SR20, SR22, and Vision SF50 models.
Photo: Cirrus
Notably, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified this pioneering system in October 1998, marking it the first and only aircraft ballistic parachute to be utilized as standard equipment.
In the event of a complete loss of engine power, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) will be deployed. This safety feature is designed to lower the SR22 gently and allow all other Cirrus aircraft to go to the ground, allowing passengers to evacuate safely. This innovative system provides an added layer of safety and peace of mind for both pilots and passengers.
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Other noteworthy Cirrus aircraft
Cirrus is renowned for producing high-quality piston aircraft and affordable private aircraft. The Vision jet is widely regarded as a highly cost-effective option for individuals seeking to acquire a private jet. As reported by controller.com, a 2019 CIRRUS VISION SF50-G2 can be purchased for approximately $2 million.
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Some final thoughts on the SR22
Since its introduction by Cirrus Aircraft in 2001, the SR22 has set a standard in general aviation with its blend of performance, luxury, and safety. Evolving through multiple generations, the latest G7 variant exemplifies technological advancement with speed, avionics, and comfort improvements catering to pilots and passengers.
With over 7,000 units delivered, military and law enforcement adoption highlights its versatility. Including the lifesaving CAPS system underscores Cirrus’ commitment to safety, solidifying the SR22 as a popular choice among aviation enthusiasts and a pioneer in aircraft safety technologies.