Cirrus Design is the designer and manufacturer of the CIRRUS SR20 and the world’s best selling FAA certified small aircraft, the CIRRUS SR22. Brothers Alan and Dale Klapmeier founded Cirrus Design Corporation in 1984 with a strong commitment to becoming an industry leader in revitalizing the general aviation market by creating high-quality, technologically advanced aircraft for all levels of pilots.
As experienced pilots themselves, the Klapmeier brothers understood the industry needs and began to research new technology, design and safety options. They challenged conventional engineering and long-time standards in design and began to explore ways to build a better, safer airplane. Today, they build the only FAA Certified production airplanes equipped with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), which, in 2002, made aviation history with the first safe landing by a private pilot after deploying the parachute. CIRRUS is headquartered in Duluth, MN.
Cirrus Design began as an aircraft design and manufacturing company in Baraboo, Wis. Though the first plane designed was not FAA certified, it became the inspiration for developing technologically advanced production aircraft. In 1994, the corporation moved its headquarters to larger facilities in Duluth, MN and began research and development of the CIRRUS SR20, a four-passenger, single-engine composite aircraft. While Cirrus Design has manufactured various aircraft since it’s founding, the CIRRUS SR20 is an original concept from start to finish. The company’s next generation of aircraft is the world’s best selling SR22, a four seat aircraft with a more powerful engine and extended range. Continual upgrades including air-conditioning and Turbo charging make the SR22 the most innovative airplane in its class. The SR20 and the SR22, exemplify the company's commitment to making personal aviation more accessible; with airplanes that are easier to operate and safer for both pilots and non-pilots alike.
SR20 In the summer of 1994, Cirrus Design introduced the SR20 at the EAA Convention and Congress passed the General Aviation Revitalization Act — creating a wave of excitement within the general aviation industry. The SR20 features composite construction and advanced aerodynamics. The aircraft also incorporates flat-panel, multi-function display technology and state-of-the-art safety innovations, including a revolutionary safety innovation known as the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The SR20 was designed as a personal transportation vehicle. The luxurious interior is roomy and the aerodynamic airframe is sleek and sophisticated. True to the underlying mission of the company, the SR20 was created to revitalize the general aviation industry. No aircraft manufacturer has ever combined this level of comfort, ease of operation, safety and performance into one product.
SR22 From the start, the CIRRUS business plan projected the development and manufacture of additional aircraft designs and technological upgrades in the years to come. To that end, engineers developed the next product, the SR22, a powerful aircraft that utilizes the aerodynamic flying qualities of the SR20 while adding speed and performance..- PAGE 2 - Cirrus Design Historical Landmarks
Cirrus Design Historical Landmarks
1993: CIRRUS breaks ground for the first phase of its new company headquarters, a 30,000 square foot research and development facility in Duluth, MN.
1994: Employees move into a new facility and begin working on the SR20 proof-of-concept, the first of four prototypes planned for obtaining a Type Certificate.
1995: In March, the first CIRRUS SR20 prototype makes its maiden flight. A second SR20 prototype, a refined version of the first aircraft, joins the flight test program in November.
1996: CIRRUS announces plans in January to proceed with Phase Two of its expansion in Duluth and construct another building in Grand Forks, ND. CIRRUS submits application for FAR Part 23 Type Certification of the SR20 in March. Later that year, Cirrus Design breaks ground on its facility in Grand Forks and begins building parts in Duluth for the first conforming SR20 prototype.
1997: In March, testing of the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) begins using weighted barrels. The following month, Cirrus Design starts assembly of the first production prototype aircraft.
1998: In January, the first production prototype of the SR20 makes its maiden flight. This aircraft is used to verify design flight characteristics for the SR20. Cirrus Design begins moving into an 111,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, adjacent to its R & D facility and company headquarters in Duluth. July brings complete and successful preliminary tests by Cirrus Design and BRS Inc and FAA in-flight testing of CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System). In October, FAA Administrator Jane Garvey awards a Type Certificate for the SR20 aircraft at the AOPA Convention in Palm Springs, CA.
1999: In July, aircraft orders reach 325 as the first CIRRUS SR20 is delivered to Walt and Marianne Conley of Minnesota. In October, first delivery of an SR20 to Europe
2000: In January, engineers begin designing a conforming prototype of the SR22. Certification tests begin in June. During the first quarter, CIRRUS delivers 15 SR20 aircraft and orders exceed 550. Employment tops 450. Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority issues a Type Acceptance Certificate for Cirrus SR20 in May. The first Australian customer SR20 arrives in Brisbane a month later. In June, Cirrus Design receives Production Certificate for SR20. In July, Cirrus Design delivers its 50 th aircraft. In October, engineers submit paperwork to the FAA for certification approval and the CIRRUS SR22 is unveiled at AOPA Convention in Long Beach, CA. In November, the FAA approves certification for the CIRRUS SR22 and in December, issues an amendment to the SR20 Production Certificate authorizing CIRRUS to issue Certificates of Airworthiness for the SR22. Later that month, David Shepard of Wisconsin receives the keys to the 100 th SR20 off the production line.
2001: In February, the first SR22 is delivered to Paul Traina of California. In July, at the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, CIRRUS delivers the 200 th aircraft to Greg Anderson of Florida.
In November, at the AOPA Convention in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, CIRRUS announces: • The delivery of the 250 th Cirrus aircraft, and the 100 th SR22 • Employment had increased to nearly 600
2002: In January, the first SR22 equipped with the Avidyne FlightMax Multi-Function Display is delivered to Tom Moore of Oswego Lake, OR. In April, at EAA Sun ‘N’ Fun in Lakeland, FL Cirrus Design announces the new SR20 version 2.0, an all-electric aircraft, will be available in 2003 In July, at EAA AirVenture, Oshkosh, WI Cirrus Design announces: • FlightMax Entegra PFD now available for CIRRUS Customers • Ice Protection now available for SR22 • MFD Engine and Fuel Monitor capabilities, EMax now available. • The 500 th aircraft rolls off production line at Cirrus Design facility in Duluth, MN. • Canadian and Australian Type Certification for CIRRUS SR22 formally approved • UND-Aerospace Foundation team with Cirrus Design to provide unique CIRRUS Customer Training
In October, CIRRUS makes aviation history with the first successful deployment of any FAA certified small airplane using a ballistic parachute recovery system. Lionel Morrison, Texas pilot, lands unharmed after his SR22 aircraft control was compromised, deploys CAPS (Cirrus Airframe Parachute System) and lands in wooded area.
Also, SR22’s sporting their TKS Ice Protection System roll off the production line. The popular new option was introduced at AirVenture, Oshkosh, WI in July 2002.
2003: In January, the newly elected MN Governor visits Cirrus Design to discuss the company’s growth and expansion. Stating, “These planes are cool,” Governor Pawlenty takes SR22 flight. In February, the first CIRRUS aircraft to call New Zealand home arrives safely to the delight of new owner, Stuart Clumpas. Later that month, CIRRUS delivers on promise of their “glass cockpit” and defines the new industry standard. David Bushman and Greg Waits take possession of the first two single engine piston aircraft to be equipped with Primary Flight Displays. CIRRUS makes aviation history with this event. In May, first export of a CIRRUS aircraft to Russia. Top of the line SR22 was delivered to Moscow flying club. Also in May, a partnership of Nabil N. El-Hage of Massachusetts, and Rob Mulderig of Bermuda, became the 500th Cirrus SR22 owner. The company now has over 800 employees and over 800 SR20 and SR22 airplanes owner flown. The CIRRUS SR22 is picked “Best of the Best 2003” in its class, by Robb Report Magazine. CIRRUS SR20 and CIRRUS SR22 win their respective categories, with the SR22 winning over all, in the Plane and Pilot Magazine’s ‘Reader’s Choice Awards’. In June, Cirrus hosts the First Annual Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) Fly –In at the company’s headquarters in Duluth, MN.
In July at EAA AirVenture Cirrus made the following announcements. • Cirrus Design introduces new model, the VFR only SRV. • All Glass Cock-pits become standard in all CIRRUS aircraft. • Cirrus Design celebrates 100 Years of powered flight with a Centennial Edition SR22. In August CIRRUS set record high sales of 51 for the month of July and celebrated 1000 aircraft off production line..- PAGE 4 - Cirrus Design Historical Landmarks
In October at the Aircraft Owner’s and Pilot’s Association Expo, CIRRUS announces • Standardized Training for CFIs. • Displays Historical Aircraft at AOPA Expo. In December Cirrus Design, explores the next 100 years “Future of Personal Aviation” in a white paper. CIRRUS unveils Technology of Flight Exhibit at Centennial Celebration, Kitty Hawk, NC. Donates display for permanent exhibit at Kitty Hawk National Park.
2004: Jamail Larkins, popular EAA National Young Eagle spokesperson launches national “Dream Tour” in new CIRRUS SR20. In March, the FAA and Cirrus Design coordinate New Generation Aircraft Familiarization Program-250 FAA inspectors to visit the CIRRUS facilities in six months.
CIRRUS announced the launch of the new SR22-G2™. Product Enhancements include new automotive-style doors, interiors with contemporary colors with French stitching, and leather wrapped side-yokes, a new tail access panel and easier access to CAPS. Marine One pilot, Lt. Col. Lindy Kirkland using a CIRRUS SR22 sets aviation record to raise money for Angel Flight East. In June, the CIRRUS SR20 receives European Certification and Alan and Dale Klapmeier receive award regional award as Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneurs of the Year in Manufacturing. In July the 2 nd Annual MN Migration of Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) includes the return of 96 CIRRUS aircraft to the Duluth, MN facility. Also in July, the 1000 th SR22 series aircraft receives Air Worthiness Certificate. Later in July at EAA
AirVenture, in Oshkosh, WI, CIRRUS announces: • The SR20-G2 and SRV-G2 now available. • Driven by continued healthy sales, production rates for the SR series aircraft increases to 12 aircraft per week, company adds 88 new employees and seeks additional engineers.
In September, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System is used for the fourth time and saves two more lives. Total lives saved is now 8. Later in September the Klapmeier Brothers honored for their “contributions and advancements in aviation” with an award presented by Lt Governor Carol Molnau on behalf of MN Governor Pawlenty. At the beginning of October, Vice President and Mrs. Cheney host “town meeting” at Cirrus Design headquarters in Duluth, MN. CIRRUS success garners additional national attention during vice-presidential debate. Also in October, Dr. Robert Segal of Las Cruces NM happily takes delivery of SR22-G2 with the long-awaited and highly anticipated safety option datalink weather. Later in October at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Convention in Long Beach, CA, Cirrus Design launches latest SR22 special edition package called “GTS”. In December, MN Gov. Pawlenty presents CIRRUS a “Military Support Appreciation” Award, At the end of December, Aero-News.net names Cirrus Design the 2004 “Company of the Year”.
2005
In January Cirrus announces international sales expansion with opening of sales office in Russia.
Also in January, Sweden’s prestigious flight training program “Lund University of Aviation” places five Cirrus SR20s on their flight line. Additionally in February, CIRRUS announces Flight Director available. In April, Sun N Fun in Lakeland FL, Cirrus made the following announcements: • Record sales for 2004-up 69% than previous year. • CIRRUS now delivering aircraft with Flight Director
In June, CIRRUS marks the delivery of Europe’s 200 th Cirrus airplane. Also in June, CIRRUS celebrates the 2000 th Cirrus airplane off the production line. The SR22 is now the world’s best selling airplane.
In July, Cirrus Airframe Parachute System records save number 5, pilot declares medical emergency, lands in water.
In July, at EAA’s AirVenture 2005 in Oshkosh, WI, Cirrus Design made the following announcements: • Leading the industry by setting a good example, CIRRUS continues safety commitment by now making EGPWS and airbag seatbelts standard equipment. Also adds XM radio to the options list and offers new colors for interiors and new design/colors in striping. • Popular air show performer and aerobatic champion, Patty Wagstaff, joins CIRRUS in marketing partnership. • Plane & Pilot Magazine Reader’s Choice Award for Best Airplane, Cirrus SR20. • Plane & Pilot Magazine Reader’s Choice Award for Best Airplane, Cirrus SR22 In September, Cirrus Design completed a deal with Western Michigan University’s Collegiate Aviation Program to replace its entire fleet of single-engine aircraft trainers with the technologically advanced CIRRUS aircraft. In October, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) 2005 shipments verify the CIRRUS SR22 continues a three year trend as the world’s best selling aircraft. In November at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Expo in Tampa, Fl, Cirrus Design made the following announcements:
• CIRRUS re-defines jet market. Also in November: • Flight Safety Foundation awarded CIRRUS CEO and Co-founder, Alan Klapmeier, its 2005 Admiral Luis de Florez Award, "for fulfilling a commitment to safety in the design and manufacture of personal airplanes”. • Top collegiate aerospace university, North Dakota, announced UND students to train in CIRRUS aircraft. In December, CIRRUS announced aircraft re-assembly will begin in Europe in new venture with Britten-Norman. 2006
In January Cirrus Design announced prestigious flight training school UND takes delivery of four CIRRUS SR20s.
Also in January, • Cirrus Airframe Parachute System(CAPS) saves three more lives in Alabama. • CIRRUS released sales and customer delivery statistics for 2005. 701 new sales were recorded along with the delivery of 600 aircraft to customers. Deliveries grew by more that 9% over 2004. In February, CIRRUS recorded another parachute pull in SD, saving three more lives, bringing the number to 15 lives saved, in seven usages of the unique safety system. In April, at Sun N Fun Fly-In in Lakeland Florida, Cirrus Design announced: • New and improved production line integrated HVAC systems now on SR Series aircraft. • CIRRUS fleet tops one million hours of flying time. At Fly! The London Air Show, CIRRUS announced the SR22 received European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification, thus allowing European customers to register aircraft in their home country.
In June, the 4 th and largest Annual COPA Migration of the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association sees 175 Cirrus aircraft return home to the Duluth, MN facility. Also in June, Cirrus Design announced the expansion of its partnership with Sunland Aviation in Brisbane, Australia, to include the final reassembly of CIRRUS aircraft sold in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Rim. In July, CIRRUS received CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China) certification for both the SR20 and SR22, allowing Chinese customers to register aircraft in their home country. iAVIATE™, Norfolk, VA, launched a new aircraft management business model that offers shared ownership and training courses on technologically advanced CIRRUS airplanes. Three airplanes are purchased with the option for twelve more.
In July, at EAA’s AirVenture 2006 in Oshkosh, WI, Cirrus Design made the following announcements: • A new CIRRUS Turbo aircraft featuring a three-blade Hartzell light weight composite prop matched to a twin turbonormalized, dual intercooled engine system from Tornado Alley Turbo, Inc. • CIRRUS’ commitment to its customers is strengthened with the announcement of eight new ownership plans created to provide the total pilot solution: CIRRUS ACCESS TM , CIRRUS CERTIFIED TM , CIRRUS SHARE TM , CIRRUS ENCORE TM , CIRRUS INSURANCE TM , CIRRUS FINANCE TM , CIRRUS LEASE TM , and CIRRUS WARRANTY TM . • A CIRRUS SR22 Signature Edition aircraft is introduced to honor CIRRUS’ 22 nd birthday. Co-founders Alan and Dale Klapmeier sign these 35 aircraft and they come equipped with several special features. • PLANE GENIUS tag line is introduced to encapsulate the spirit of the CIRRUS DNA: Innovation, Performance and Difference. August brought the announcement of a fleet sale of 30 CIRRUS SR20’s to the CAPT (Commercial Airplane Pilot Training) program at Flagler County Airport in Palm Beach Florida. FTSI (Flight Training Services International) and CIRRUS share a dedication to training the next generation of pilot professionals for a wide range of aviation careers. In September, Cirrus Design renewed Patty Wagstaff’s contract for another two year term. In October, CIRRUS landed an FAA milestone by achieving the coveted ODAR (Organization Designated Airworthiness Representative) certification. In November at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Expo (AOPA) in Palm Springs, CA, CIRRUS made the following announcements: • Delta Connection Academy, a subsidiary of Delta Airlines, chooses CIRRUS SR20 as training airplane for use throughout its company in one of the largest fleet purchases (50 for an option for more) by a training organization. • CIRRUS announces shiny STERLING paint scheme option • 3000 th airplane off the production line is celebrated in just seven years of delivery.
2007
In January, Cirrus announced safety enhancements including risk assessment tools for the multi-function display. • Air Transport Canada certifies Cirrus SR22 Turbo In February, Cirrus announced all time record sales and deliveries for 2006. • Also in February, Cirrus announced additional Envelope of Safety screens added to MFD. • At the end of February, Cirrus, in partnership with Jeppesen, introduced Life-Time Learning for Cirrus pilots. In April, at Sun N Fun in Lakeland, FL, Cirrus announced their latest innovation, the SR22-G3. In May, Cirrus announced the SR22G-3 turbo with air conditioning, is now available for delivery beginning in mid-summer..- PAGE 7 - Cirrus Design Historical Landmarks In June, Cirrus announced first time participation in the 2007 Paris Air Show. Three SR aircraft will be on display. • Also in June, Cirrus unveiled “the-jet”; On 6/27/07 the position holders for the-jet got their first look at their jet; 6/28/07 a press event was held revealing the-jet to the public July 5, 2007.
Cirrus Design Corporation headquarters was the destination for Cirrus pilots for the 5 th annual COPA Migration with approximately 300 Cirrus planes on the tarmac. • July 13, 2007, Cirrus Design Corporation gave its Grand Forks (ND) employees and distinguished members of the community and state, including ND Governor Hoeven, their first look at “the-jet” – the most anticipated aircraft in the company’s history. • July 16, 2007, Cirrus Design Corporation announces an entire fleet upgrade by PlaneSmart! Of Dallas, TX for their Professionally Managed Shared Ownership program, replacing the entire fleet as aircraft become available. • At EAA Airventure in OSH KOSH Wisconsin, Cirrus announced plans to add an LSA to their already popular SR line of personal aircraft • July 23, 2007, Cirrus announced today the launch of CIRRUS PROFICIENT – a program designed to simplify flight training options for those buying a new or pre-flown airplane from CIRRUS.
