Training & Certification
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Gains EASA and UK CAA Certification for Europe
Cirrus Aircraft’s SR Series G7+ receives EASA and UK CAA type certification, introducing Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland to European piston aircraft.
This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft.
Cirrus Aircraft has officially received type certification from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its SR Series G7+ aircraft. Announced on December 9, 2025, this regulatory milestone clears the way for immediate deliveries of the manufacturer’s latest single-engine piston models, the SR20, SR22, and SR22T, to customers across Europe and the United Kingdom.
The certification marks a significant technological shift for the European general Commercial-Aircraft market. The “G7+” designation distinguishes this model from the standard G7 introduced earlier in 2024. While the G7 focused on a flight deck redesign, the G7+ introduces the Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system as standard equipment. According to the company’s announcement, this makes the SR Series G7+ the first single-engine piston aircraft in the European market to feature a certified autonomous landing system capable of taking control during pilot incapacitation.
The primary differentiator for the newly certified G7+ is the integration of the Safe Return™ system, powered by Garmin Autoland technology. Previously available only on the jet-powered Vision Jet, this technology has now been standardized for the piston fleet. In the event of an emergency, such as pilot hypoxia or a cardiac event, a passenger can activate the system via a button on the cabin ceiling.
Once engaged, the system performs a complex sequence of autonomous actions without human intervention:
In addition to the Autoland capability, the G7+ certification includes other automated enhancements designed to reduce pilot workload. These include “Smart Pitot Heat,” which automatically engages based on outside air temperature to prevent icing, and Cirrus IQ™ Pro, a connectivity suite that facilitates real-time health monitoring and automatic database updates.
“We are pleased to receive EASA and UK CAA approval for the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland… European owners enjoy premium innovation, safety and quality with the SR Series G7+.”
, Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft
The dual certification from EASA and the UK CAA is a critical component of Cirrus Aircraft’s growth Strategy in the region. According to data referenced in reports by Flight Global, Europe currently represents the company’s second-largest market, accounting for approximately 11% of global deliveries. Cirrus has stated a strategic objective to increase this market share to between 20% and 30%.
By securing approval for the G7+, Cirrus aims to leverage the region’s focus on safety features. The complex airspace and variable weather conditions in Europe often drive buyers toward aircraft with advanced Avionics and redundancy. The immediate availability of the G7+ allows Cirrus to fulfill existing Orders and target new buyers looking for the specific safety net provided by the Autoland system. The certification of the G7+ establishes a significant competitive advantage for Cirrus in the high-performance piston sector. While competitors like Diamond Aircraft (based in Austria) and Piper Aircraft (USA) offer strong alternatives in the single-engine piston category, Cirrus is currently the only Manufacturers offering a certified autonomous landing system in this class within the European market.
We observe that this move effectively blurs the line between high-end piston aircraft and entry-level turbines. By migrating “Vision Jet” technology down to the SR Series, Cirrus is likely attempting to upsell owner-pilots who might otherwise consider moving to a competitor’s turboprop for perceived safety gains. Furthermore, achieving simultaneous certification from both EASA and the UK CAA demonstrates a successful navigation of the post-Brexit regulatory landscape, ensuring that the G7+ faces no friction in accessing the continent’s two most vital general aviation jurisdictions.
The rollout of the G7 platform has been rapid. The initial SR Series G7, featuring the new touchscreen flight deck and improved ergonomics, was launched in January 2024. The “Plus” variant, adding the Autoland capability, was introduced to the US market in May 2025. With the December 2025 certification, the European market has now caught up to the North American standard, unifying the product line globally.
Deliveries to European and UK customers are expected to commence immediately.
Cirrus SR Series G7+ Secures EASA and UK CAA Certification, Bringing Autonomous Landing to Europe
The “Plus” Distinction: Safety and Autonomy
Strategic Expansion in the European Market
AirPro News Analysis: A Competitive Moat
Timeline of the G7 Evolution
Sources
Photo Credit: Cirrus