N246FB

Overview

The SR20 G7+ is the latest model in the SR Series.  It pairs the familiar handling and Lycoming IO‑390‑C3B6 engine of the SR20 with the new G7+ airframe and avionics package.  Like other G7 models, the SR20 G7+ emphasizes ease‑of‑use and comfort while introducing major safety upgrades.  In particular, the “+” denotes the inclusion of Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland – a first in a single‑engine piston aircraft .  The result is an approachable four‑to‑five‑seat aircraft that offers modern avionics, a thoughtfully redesigned cabin and autonomous safety features.

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Safety Features

• Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland – In an emergency, anyone in the cabin can press a ceiling‑mounted button to activate a fully automated landing sequence .  The system uses sensors and advanced algorithms to fly to the nearest suitable airport, communicate with air traffic control, avoid terrain/weather and bring the aircraft to a complete stop .  It can be activated manually or automatically if the pilot becomes unresponsive .‍
• Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS®) – Standard on all Cirrus aircraft, CAPS brings the entire aircraft down safely under a parachute .  It has saved more than 250 lives .‍
• Stick Shaker & Flap Airspeed Protection – A stick shaker vibrates the yoke when the aircraft is nearing a stall, while flap‑airspeed protection prevents the flaps from being extended or retracted outside their safe speed ranges .‍
• Hypoxia Detection & Auto‑Descent – At altitudes above 14,900 ft the avionics monitor pilot activity; if there is no response to warnings, the system automatically descends to a breathable altitude .‍
• Cuffed Wing & Electronic Stability Protection – A NASA‑developed cuffed wing with a discontinuous leading edge reduces the likelihood of a spin during a stall .  Electronic Stability and Protection gently nudges the aircraft back to a stable attitude if pitch or bank limits are exceeded and can engage the autopilot if deviations persist .‍
• Runway Occupancy Awareness & Smart Pitot Heat (G7+) – Runway occupancy awareness uses ADS‑B data to predict and warn of potential runway incursions, while Smart Pitot Heat automates pitot‑tube heating based on outside temperature .‍
• Automatic Database Updates (G7+) – Through the Cirrus IQ PRO app, the aircraft’s databases can be updated over Wi‑Fi or LTE while the aircraft is off .

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Avionics

The SR20 G7+ uses the Cirrus Perspective Touch+™ by Garmin® flight deck.  This system is built around large 12‑inch (optional 14‑inch) high‑resolution displays  and dual Garmin Touch Controllers with intuitive icons .  Key features include:

• SurfaceWatch – Provides visual and audio alerts to prevent taking off or landing on the wrong runway and displays remaining runway length .
• Taxiway Routing & 3D SafeTaxi – Offers progressive taxi instructions and 3‑D airport diagrams , assisting pilots at complex airports.
• Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) – Delivers a 3‑D representation of terrain, water and obstacles, with airport identifiers displayed at distances from 25 nm down to 1 nm .
• Checklist Scroll Wheel & CAS‑Linked Checklists – A scroll wheel borrowed from the Vision Jet allows quick navigation through checklists, and the system automatically displays checklists linked to specific crew alert messages  .
• Garmin Touchscreen Controllers – These controllers provide quick access to flight planning, mapping, audio controls and system synoptics using icon‑based touch keys .
• Large Widescreen Displays – Dual 12‑ or 14‑inch screens allow split‑screen views of an approach chart, engine parameters and a navigation map simultaneously .

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Cabin & Interior

The G7 generation reimagines the SR20’s cabin.  Seating has been redesigned for better ergonomics and a more “performance” feel, with space for up to four passengers plus the pilot .  Notable cabin enhancements include:

• Push‑Button Start – A modern push‑button replaces the traditional magneto key start .
• Automatic Fuel Selector System – Automatically switches between fuel tanks every five gallons to simplify fuel management .
• Interior Panels & Ambient Lighting – New panels incorporate dimmable task lights and ambient accent lighting to create a refined environment .
• Increased Storage – Two centre‑console compartments, sturdy cup holders and numerous pockets provide convenient storage and tidy cord management .
• Connectivity & Comfort – Powered headset jacks and high‑power USB‑C outlets are positioned within easy reach for all occupants .  Added legroom and performance seating make longer flights more comfortable.
• Design Options – Five new exterior colours and premium interior packages are available, allowing owners to personalise the aircraft .

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Performance & Handling

The SR20 G7+ is powered by a Lycoming IO‑390‑C3B6 engine producing 215 hp .  The aircraft balances approachable handling with respectable performance:

• Max cruise speed - 155 KTAS ‍
• Max operating altitude - 17 ,500 ft ‍
• Range (55 % power) - 709 nm ‍
• Useful load - 1 003 lb ‍
• Take‑off distance (over 50 ft obstacle) - 1 685 ft ‍
• Climb rate - 781 ft/min ‍
• Stall speed (flaps) - 57 KCAS

Other dimensions include a wingspan of 38 ft 4 in, length of 26 ft, cabin width of 49 in and cabin height of 50 in .

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Performance Enhancements (G7)

• Intelligent Lightweight Battery – Integrated cell management extends battery life and maintains strong output while reducing weight .
• Reduced Drag – New manufacturing techniques reduce drag at the seams between Flight‑Into‑Known‑Icing (FIKI) panels and the wing .  Redesigned wheel fairings with smaller gaps further lower drag, adding up to 9 knots of top speed and improving fuel efficiency .
• Beringer Brakes & Wheels – Made from aerospace‑grade aluminium, these lightweight brakes deliver better stopping power and longer life .

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Summary

The Cirrus SR20 G7+ builds on the established SR20 platform by adding the G7’s redesigned cabin and avionics suite and introducing Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland, automatic database updates, runway occupancy awareness and smart pitot heat.  These improvements make the SR20 G7+ an attractive choice for pilots seeking a modern, easy‑to‑fly aircraft with industry‑leading safety features and a comfortable, technology‑rich cabin.

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