Originally Posted by
block30
Just to reiterate, my original intention was not to barbeque the pilot from the article. There were a few things that made me rub my chin and go, "Hmmmmm." I'm more curious as to the broader BRS pilot training and mentality.
I imagine we have all read a few articles on the Cirrus in particular, and what level of safety they are really achieving. I have found that very interesting, and the authors usually have some statistics, but I am curious about the perspectives of those who are actually flying them-or are closely connected to those who are.
Can't speak for everyone, but my training was to pull it as the last, best option. Not exactly last resort, but definitely not pull first, ask questions later (e.g., engine failure over the mountains at night, structural failure or other loss of control, pilot incapacitation, etc.). Situations where coming down with a forward airspeed equal to the local wind speed seemed preferable to the alternative.
I always felt quite safe flying that plane. I enjoyed the performance and handling. Never felt like loss of control was an issue, even at low speeds. A solid, stable platform, with a bonus that most planes don't have, just in case.
Regarding a few unknowns I saw mentioned in the thread... IIRC Vs0 is about 65-70 KIAS, Vg is 88 KIAS. Descent under canopy is about 1100 fpm depending on density altitude, and feels like a fall from about 10 feet high. Minimum suggested altitude for deployment is 1000 AGL, but deployment has been accomplished in less than 400 ft. The landing gear is designed to absorb the shock and give way upon impact. The seats have a special honeycomb material in them to further absorb impact shock and prevent back injuries. Oh, and there are/were shops performing composite repairs.