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Cirrus adds SR-Series aircraft

Cirrus Aircraft recently unveiled its SR-Series aircraft, which willjoin its 2013 lineup of planes. This model features a greater load carrying capability for the SR22 and SR22T.

“Innovation is the unique hallmark that make Cirrus aircraft safer, easier to fly, higher performing and more versatile year after year,” said Todd Simmons, executive vice presidentof sales and marketing at Cirrus Aircraft. "Given that record of design achievement, the number one request we receive from Cirrus owners and prospects is increased load carrying capability. Today we are very excited to announce our fifth generation airplane, the 2013 Cirrus SR22 and SR22T, and deliver even more mission flexibility in the most preferred airplane in general aviation."

The gross weight for both the SR22 and SR22Tis increased by 3,600 pounds and translates toa roomier plane. The aircraft now offers space for an extra person to get on board, as well as more room for baggage and cargo, while being able to carry more fuel. Both aircraft seat five passengers.

According to company officials, the plane was analyzed from head to toe, ​resulting inan increased airframe load, aerodynamic improvements, better flight performance and the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System.

The company named the airframewhich enabled these improvements Generation 5. Airframe improvements include strengthening of the carbon fiber, single part wing spar and landing gear, as well as a new flap system which offers extension to the first position at 150 knots.

Cubcrafters saw growth in 2012

Airplane companies saw strong numbers in 2012, even as the global economy showed slow growth.

CubCrafters reported that it delivered 58 new airplanes in 2012, a 23 percent increase when compared to 2011 and an all time record amount of units sold.

“We've tried to manage our growth carefully,” saidCubCrafters President Jim Richmond. “The market's overwhelming reception of our Carbon Cub SS tempted us to add space and people quickly. Instead, we bumped production incrementally by increasing process efficiencies as much as possible."

Last year's deliveries were for three models, which included the Carbon Cub SS, Sport CubS2​and Top Cub.

Randy Lervold, CubCrafters General Manager, saidthey already expect to increase deliveries in 2013 to 66 aircraft.

According to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, in the first nine months of 2012, aviation shipments were up 4.2 percent when compared to 2011, while airplane shipments where up 1.4 percent during the same time period.

Those in the general aviation community should never take to the sky without pilot life insurance, especially those who plan on getting a plane in the new year.

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