A 'Chute For The 'Cruiser

Some big news for a small plane... as Ballistic Recovery Systems announced at Lakeland 2007 the final approval to offer a recovery parachute on the Czech Aircraft Works Sport Cruiser LSA. The announcement also marks the implementation of a new process to test, analyze and make design changes to match BRS systems to specific airframes.

"This new process closely parallels that used for BRS/CAPS equipped Cirrus installations on the SR22 and SR20 aircraft," said BRS Vice President of Engineering Frank Hoffman. "We now have a new, factory-supported and cooperatively installed, system that complies with ASTM standards for parachutes on LSA category aircraft."

What that means, is future additions of BRS 'chutes to other LSAs have been made easier by this initial application. BRS states the new process makes it significantly easier for aircraft OEMs to add whole-airplane parachutes. The company adds at least five additional light sport aircraft manufacturers are expected to announce inclusion of BRS systems in their aircraft soon.

"We have seen the demand for the BRS parachute system building in all segments and we are responding with this streamlined process," said John Gilmore, BRS VP of Sales. "We expect more manufacturers will incorporate BRS parachutes as a standard item on airplanes."

CZAW President Chip Erwin tells ANN the company has previous experience with BRS systems.

"While we have been selling aircraft for many years with BRS parachutes, this newest installation in our Sport Cruiser complies with standards required by LSA rules in documentation as well as standardization," Erwin said.

BRS notes that since the first documented save in 1981, BRS parachute systems have saved the lives of 201 pilots and passengers.