A New TRAC Record

Cirrus recently announced an IFR capable training version of their best-selling SR series, single engine aircraft, known as the TRAC. The SR20 version of the TRAC is powered by the 215 hp Lycoming. This smooth-running engine has proven popular in the G6 version of the SR20 and yields a great turn of speed.

The fixed gear TRAC aircraft have a gear lever and gear lights, but the wheels do not actually retract. There is a panel for instructors to simulate gear failure.

I was offered the opportunity to fly the TRAC, observe a fleet delivery, ask lots of questions of the director of the SR product line, Ivy McIver, and to delve into those behind the announcement features such as multimedia training and support offerings, including “iFOM,” an interactive Flight Operations Manual, that students can access anywhere, anytime.

But will the TRAC be suitable for and find favour down under, given that Australia is in the midst of an increase in demand for airline pilots?

And there are other questions: firstly, can pilots earn a retractable rating in the TRAC? Secondly, can the TRAC simulate pitch and speed changes as the gear is lowered and retracted; and thirdly, how comfortable is the new interior on long flights?

“The genesis of the TRAC goes right back to the early days,” says McIver. “The Klapmeier brothers reversed course after