Cirrus Design, headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota, is a leading designer and manufacturer of FAA-certified general aviation aircraft. Brothers Alan and Dale Klapmeier founded the company in 1984. From the start, Cirrus Design and its employees were committed to the idea that Cirrus would be a leader in revitalizing the general aviation market by creating high-quality, ingeniously designed aircraft for all levels of pilots.

As experienced pilots themselves, the Klapmeier brothers understood the needs of pilots and began researching new technology, design and safety options. They challenged conventional engineering and long-time standards in aircraft design and began to research and invest in ways to build a better, safer airplane. Today, Cirrus Design manufactures the only FAA-certified production airplane 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.

The Beginning

Cirrus Design began as an aviation design and manufacturing company in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Though the first airplane 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, Minnesota, and began research and development of the SR20, a four-passenger, single-engine composite aircraft.

SR20 and SR22

In the summer of 1994, Cirrus Design introduced the SR20 at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Convention in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. That same year, Congress passed the General Aviation Revitalization Act – creating a wave of excitement within the general aviation industry. Cirrus Design continued development and testing of the SR20 and received FAA certification in 1998. 

The product line was expanded in 2000 with certification of the SR22, with a more powerful engine and longer range. Both aircraft feature composite construction, advanced aerodynamics and an interior that is luxurious and roomy. A continued commitment to push the envelope of conventional general aviation aircraft design has led to the incorporation of state-of-art safety innovations such as Terrain Awareness System, Traffic Information, Satellite Weather Datalink, Stormscope® and electronic instrument approach plates. Since receiving FAA certification in 2000, the SR22 has become the best-selling aircraft in its class. No aircraft manufacturer has ever combined this level of comfort, ease of operation, safety, and performance into one product.

SR22-G3 – A New Generation

In 2007, Cirrus Design introduced its third generation of aircraft – the SR22-G3. The G3 is a continuing evolution to refine the aircraft structure and systems, and reduce unnecessary weight using the best new materials and engineering methods available. Without adding to the aircraft's weight, Cirrus has increased new equipment options, payload, safety features, and aircraft usefulness.

The Future

Cirrus continues to expand its product offerings with the announcement of its plans to develop a new class of personal jet aircraft.  Designed to be a logical transition for pilots of the SR22, “the-jet” will undoubtedly create a new standard for personal aviation. 

Having received numerous accolades and awards for its innovations and contributions to the advancement of the general aviation industry, Cirrus is a global leader with a growing number of Cirrus Sales, Service and Training Centers in 16 countries around the world.