New SR20s Will Ship In January

It's been a heckuva decade for the Cirrus folks... as 2008 already marks the 10th anniversary of the certification of the remarkable plane that changed the general aviation industry. To celebrate the historic SR20, the folks at Cirrus tell ANN they are ready to unveil their 2008 SR20-Generation Three. Brand new from nose to tail, the SR20 is available to order with deliveries to begin in early January.

Cirrus Chairman and CEO Alan Klapmeier spoke out on the significance of the latest milestone in the company's history.

"When the SR20 was certified in 1998, it literally shook up the whole industry and put us on the map," he said. "Until then, we were thought of as a kit manufacturer, but when the industry took note of the SR20's incredible design as well as its many innovations and safety features, they knew we were a force to be reckoned with. Soon, other manufacturers started to copy us."

Klapmeier added, "With the 2008 SR20, we've designed a plane that will satisfy most everyone - whether they're a beginning student, an experienced pilot looking for personal transportation, or a flight training center wanting to expand their operation. For 10 years, the SR20 has won a loyal following of satisfied pilots. And now, this airplane will satisfy the needs of a whole new generation of pilots."

Cirrus Interim Vice President of Sales, John Gauch said he's especially proud of the SR20's reengineered wing, designed with a new carbon-fiber spar that reduces the airplane's overall weight and provides an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio. He also noted that many new features were added to the SR20 without adding any weight.

"Due to the larger wing on the new SR20, we've been able to increase the useful load, so pilots can take more with them wherever they fly. We wanted the SR20 to be versatile, rugged, and technologically advanced, yet simple to fly and affordable to maintain. Our 2008 SR20 offers customers exceptional value, extraordinary safety features, and exquisite craftsmanship."

The SR20's uses a Continental to produce 200-hp while a redesigned (and longer) wing gives pilots greater climb performance than ever before. Cirrus notes that, "The plane boasts a spacious 49-inch-wide cabin that will keep all occupants relaxed in an atmosphere of lavish ergonomic seating and a superior climate-controlled environment. Oversized doors allow for easy entry and exit, while the unique rear window brings in additional light to create a brighter, more comfortable ambient environment. Luxurious leather seats surround pilot and passengers, making even longer flights a relaxing experience."

FMI: www.cirrusdesign.com