Cirrus SR22

Overview

The Cirrus SR22 is a four-seat, fixed-gear, high-performance single-engine land airplane. Its 310 hp Continental IO-550-N engine, composite airframe, integrated avionics, and parachute system make it a different aircraft class from the Cessna 152, Warrior II, and 172S. It is used for personal transport and advanced training where the pilot must manage higher speeds, longer trips, and more complex systems.

This page uses a 2003 SR22 handbook and AFM basis. SR22 generation, serial number, avionics, oxygen equipment, and individual loading records matter. The model name alone does not identify every installed system or every published figure.

Performance

The stated cruise value is 183 kt, with a source range value of 1,021 nm. These are book values under the handbook's assumptions, not a promise for a particular trip. Mixture, altitude, temperature, wind, loading, engine condition, and reserve planning affect the result.

The SR22 climb references show the speed of the aircraft's performance envelope. VX 83 KIAS favors angle, while VY 101 KIAS favors rate. These numbers should be read with the source performance charts and the current aircraft configuration. A density altitude calculation can support study, but the AFM remains the reference for the aircraft.

V-speeds

The source schedule lists VNE 200 KIAS, VNO 160 KIAS, and VA 135 KIAS at the maximum weight basis. Maneuvering speed changes with weight. The flap limit in this model basis is VFE 119 KIAS.

The VX, VY, and VA glossary entries explain the terms. The actual aircraft's operating limitations, cockpit markings, and current AFM take priority.

Weight and balance

The SR22's published useful load of 1,248 lb must be considered alongside the 81 gal fuel capacity and the equipment installed in a specific aircraft. Four seats do not guarantee that four adults, baggage, and full fuel fit within both the weight and center of gravity limits. Avionics, air conditioning, oxygen, and other options can move the empty weight materially.

A current calculation should use the aircraft's actual empty weight, arms, fuel quantity, occupant weights, and baggage stations. The weight and balance calculator is for training and reference only.

Training notes

The SR22 introduces higher speeds, integrated avionics, and a different emergency equipment context than a basic trainer. A pilot transitioning into it needs a type-specific checkout, systems study, and practice with the aircraft's checklist and avionics. The fixed landing gear does not remove the need to manage energy, speed, fuel, and loading carefully at the SR22's higher cruise performance.

Variants

The SR20 and SR22 are related but use different engines and performance data. Later SR22 generations also changed equipment and systems. Do not substitute a later generation's figures for this 2003 basis. A separate MDX record is appropriate when a new POH and meaningful variant differences answer a separate reference query.

Sources

The structured values use the Cirrus Design SR22 Pilot's Operating Handbook and FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual, P/N 13772-001, Reissue A3, with model context from FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet A00009WI. Confirm the applicable revision, serial range, and aircraft records before using any figure.