What is Safe Return Emergency Autoland?
Safe Return is a fully integrated autonomous landing system that takes control of the aircraft in an emergency situation - for example, if the pilot is no longer able to act due to medical reasons. The system is activated at the touch of a button, which is easily accessible for passengers in the cabin ceiling.
As soon as the emergency button is pressed, the system uses the on-board avionics - in this case the Garmin G3000 - to analyse the current flight situation, automatically selects the most suitable destination airfield with GPS approach procedures, takes over the controls and performs a complete, safe landing. This includes not only the approach, but also extending the landing flaps, braking after landing and switching off the engine - all fully automated.
Technical implementation in the G7+ generation
The new SR-G7+ generation has additional actuators, servos and sensors that automate the manual control of thrust, mixture, flaps, elevator and even brakes. The Safe Return system is technically based on the Garmin Autolandwhich has been awarded the Collier Trophy since 2020 - one of the highest honours in the aviation industry.
The system keeps passengers continuously informed via on-screen displays and acoustic messages in the cockpit. At the same time, a Mayday emergency call The flight coordinator is informed by radio, the surrounding air traffic controller is informed and all relevant flight data is transmitted - including current position, flight direction and planned landing location.
No upgrade possible for existing models
An important note for owners of older SR models: the Safe Return system cannot be retrofitted. The far-reaching changes to the flight controls, electronics and system integration can only be realised as part of a complete new aircraft build. The system is therefore reserved exclusively for new aircraft in the G7+ series.
Costs and availability
Cirrus is making the new emergency landing system standard equipment for all new SR20, SR22 and SR22T models in the G7+ series. The exact additional costs compared to the previous generation depend on the respective model and equipment.
Classification in the market: security as a sales argument
With Safe Return, Cirrus is once again positioning itself as a pioneer in safety innovations for private pilots. For years now, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) - a complete rescue system for the entire aircraft - a unique selling point. In combination with the new autoland system, Cirrus now offers life-saving technologies that go far beyond EASA or FAA requirements in the event of both a structural emergency and a pilot's medical emergency.
Source references:
Aviation magazine