Cirrus adds Garmin's emergency autolanding tech to SR Series G7+ aircraft
DULUTH, Minn. - Cirrus Aircraft in Duluth, Minn. announced its updated SR Series G7+, the latest improvement to its single-engine piston aircraft, which now features Garmin's Safe Return Emergency Autoland system. This autonomous system allows anyone in the cabin to safely land the aircraft in the event of pilot incapacitation, making it the first FAA-approved autoland technology available in a piston-powered aircraft, according to Cirrus.
With the press of a button, Safe Return takes full control of the aircraft, communicates with air traffic control, navigates to a nearby suitable airport, avoids hazardous weather and terrain, and lands the plane. It then stops the propeller and engine, allowing passengers to exit safely.
"We’re excited to introduce the SR Series G7+, the aircraft that anyone can land in the event of an emergency with the touch of a single button," said Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus. "As the largest personal aircraft manufacturer in the world, delivering approximately 600 SR Series aircraft per year, the addition of Safe Return Emergency Autoland on a single-engine piston aircraft brings technology previously only available on larger turbine and turboprop aircraft to a greater number of pilots, spouses and their passengers for added peace of mind. The SR Series G7+ launch, along with our expanding ecosystem and Cirrus IQ platform, underscores our commitment to safety and relentless pursuit of innovation."
G7+ safety features
The system also features automatic activation if it detects pilot unresponsiveness or erratic behavior. Passengers are guided through the process via cockpit displays and can communicate directly with air traffic control.
In addition to Safe Return, the G7+ includes several new safety and convenience features. Automatic Database Updates are now available through Cirrus IQ PRO, allowing avionics data to be updated wirelessly while the aircraft is powered down. Runway Occupancy Awareness uses ADS-B data to alert pilots of potential runway incursions. The aircraft also includes Smart Pitot Heat, which automatically adjusts based on temperature, reducing pilot workload.
Cirrus has delivered more than 10,000 SR Series aircraft since 1999, accumulating more than 17 million flight hours. The G7+ continues the company’s focus on safety innovation, also featuring the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System.
