BALLISTIC RECOVERY Systems has completed the first successful high-gross-weight drop tests of its new parachute recovery-system for the Cirrus Design SR20 all-composite, single-engined four-seater aircraft.
The drop test from a Fairchild C-123 transport aircraft evaluated the system at 1,600kg, 300kg above the SR20's maximum gross-weight. Drops from 1,000ft and 2,000ft above ground-level both yielded descent rates of only 31ft/min (0.16m/s).
The SR20 will be the first production aircraft fitted as standard with a ballistic recovery-system.
Source: Flight International
