Newest Cirrus SR22 Aircraft Named "Most Sophisticated Single...Ever" by Flying Magazine

DULUTH, Minn., March 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2012 Cirrus Aircraft SR22 single engine piston aircraft was named the "Most Sophisticated Single...Ever" in a cover story by Flying magazine, the most widely read general aviation enthusiast magazine. The recognition comes just after the company celebrated the delivery of its 5,000th airplane in 2011 and market share growth to all-time high levels at year end. Cirrus Aircraft, which began production in Duluth, Minn., in 1999, has gone from an entrepreneurial dream to a global aviation enterprise with aircraft delivered in more than 60 countries.

"This is an extraordinary and prestigious recognition for Cirrus employees, owners and operators around the world," said Dale Klapmeier, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft. "When Cirrus started, we dreamed of building airplanes that make people's lives easier and better, and we continue to improve upon that dream. This latest validation of our efforts by one of the leading authorities in general aviation is a source of pride that builds even more momentum as we head into what is traditionally a very busy time of the year for flying. And it also inspires us as we accelerate our progress on the Vision Jet."

Known for incorporating luxury automotive ergonomics, pilot-friendly avionics and advanced safety features into its high performance airplanes, Cirrus pioneered the use of the FAA-certified Cirrus Airframe Parachute System™ that is standard equipment on all Cirrus aircraft. For 10 years in a row, the Cirrus SR22 family of aircraft has been the best-selling four-place airplane in the world.

Earlier this year Cirrus introduced several new features for all models, including 60/40 Flex Seating™, a wider back seat highlighted by a 60/40 fold-down split in the rear seat for five-person maximum aircraft occupancy. Also new for 2012 is Perspective Global Connect™, an avionics upgrade that provides access to the on-demand Iridium® satellite network featuring worldwide weather, satellite phone, text and email messaging capabilities. Perspective Global Connect is fully integrated with the Cirrus Perspective™ by Garmin® cockpit.

About Cirrus Aircraft

Cirrus Aircraft is a recognized leader in general aviation. Its all-composite line of personal aircraft – the SR20, SR22 and the turbocharged SR22T – incorporate innovative and advanced performance, electronic and safety technologies, including Cirrus Perspective™ by Garmin® avionics and the unique Cirrus Airframe Parachute System™ (CAPS). As of early 2012, total time on the worldwide Cirrus Aircraft SR-series fleet surpassed five and a half million flight hours with 50 lives saved to date as a direct result of CAPS being a standard safety feature on all Cirrus aircraft. The Cirrus Vision SF50 jet, with over 500 production positions reserved, will provide a new personal and regional business transportation solution – the personal jet. All Cirrus aircraft are made in the USA with a direct sales force in North America and authorized sales centers covering export markets in 60 countries around the world. Cirrus Aircraft is wholly owned by China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co., Ltd (CAIGA). For additional information on Cirrus and its products please visit cirrusaircraft.com.

SOURCE Cirrus Aircraft