Hi Guys, long time no see!
What’s the deal on Stormscope? Why is it only available for “B” and “C” configs and not for “A”
Also, what’s the deal with Autopilot upgrade?
I got paperwork in the mail from Cirrus asking me for the option for number 69. I am thinkinh of ordering “A” package with Altitude Hold and Leather seats. What do you all think?
Thanks,
Reza
Hi Guys, long time no see!
What’s the deal on Stormscope? Why is it only available for “B” and “C” configs and not for “A”
Also, what’s the deal with Autopilot upgrade?
I got paperwork in the mail from Cirrus asking me for the option for number 69. I am thinkinh of ordering “A” package with Altitude Hold and Leather seats. What do you all think?
Thanks,
Reza: The option of picking either A or C makes most sense to me. A is light IFR, and an altitude hold is a perfect addition. If you wanted serious IFR potential, then I think C is the way to go with significant back-up and two alternators. B doesn’t fit as well, and doesn’t give significant advantages or A to merit the extra money. As for the leather, it’s way too expensive, but my wife insists, so it seems I’m going for it. Leather seats and an N-number with my wife’s initials seems like a paltry sum to put out for the privilege of flying a cirrus. aa
Hi Guys, long time no see!
Welcome back!
What’s the deal on Stormscope? Why is it only available for “B” and “C” configs and not for “A”
I have no idea. I am sure you could get the WX-500 fitted aftermarket (the Arnav is already there) and probably save about $3000 (a WX-500 fitted is being quoted at under $6500). I can only assume that (like the dual alternator) Cirrus figure anyone wanting fly serious IFR will not get the A package.
Also, what’s the deal with Autopilot upgrade?
I’ve asked Cirrus for details on this. Should have an answer next week. The transponder upgrade will be the new Garmin 327 whiz-bang unit, I assume.
I am thinking of ordering “A” package with Altitude Hold and Leather seats.
My partners and I looked at it like this; with the A package you have no IFR redundancy - if the 430 goes out, you have only a VFR GPS to navigate with. The C package has good redundancy (dual IFR GPS, VOR, ILS and alternators) but is expensive. The B package has redundancy (IFR GPSx2) and can have the dual alternator for $2400. The extra $13000 for the C package is basically then paying for a fancy autopilot. I can’t see the value in that.
Mind you, our perspective here in Australia is a little different - ILS is pretty useless for a GA aircraft since only the big international airports have them, and we don’t fly there, and an ADF will be more use than a second VOR. The C package has no room left in the radio stack for an ADF receiver.
If you’re planning on lots of ILS approaches to minima, then the second ILS would be worth having.
But it’s still a lot of money.
We also went for the leather seats (they will wear better and are much easier to clean) and the three-blade prop (quieter, more ground clearance and sexier). And we’ve just added the Stormscope - weather avoidance is a big plus both en-route for safety, and also for making a go/no-go decision (CBs in the forecast?)
It all comes down to personal choices, and what kind of flying you are going to do.
The transponder upgrade will be the new Garmin 327 whiz-bang unit, I assume.
I hope. This looks like a real at-last-common-sense improvement. For those who haven’t seen it, this link may be interesting:
www.garmin.com/gtx327.html
Don’t know how much this contributes to the price increase (or whether it will be standard equip versus an option), but glad to see Cirrus offering it.