Cirrus SR22 vs Cirrus SR22T
The Cirrus SR22 and the turbo-normalized SR22T are the same airframe with the same parachute and glass panel — the difference is altitude. The normally-aspirated SR22 is the simpler, less expensive choice that performs best down low. The SR22T adds a turbocharger and oxygen so it cruises in the high teens and flight levels, topping weather and crossing high terrain the SR22 cannot, in exchange for a higher fuel burn and a turbo-overhaul reserve. The right pick depends on whether you actually fly high and long.
Key specifications, side by side
| Cirrus SR22 | Cirrus SR22T | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4–5 | 4–5 |
| Engine | Continental IO-550-N | Continental TSIO-550-K (turbo) |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 315 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~183 kt | ~213 kt (FL250) |
| Range | ~1,000 nm | ~1,000 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,300 lb | ~1,300 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 92 gal | 92 gal |
| Safety | CAPS whole-airframe parachute | CAPS whole-airframe parachute |
Representative figures for a popular variant of each family — exact specs vary by model year, engine, and avionics configuration.
What's different about the Cirrus SR22
- The CAPS whole-airframe parachute is the headline safety feature and a major insurance and resale talking point.
- 310 hp and ~183 kt cruise make it one of the fastest fixed-gear pistons — a serious cross-country machine.
- Side-yoke, glass panel, and a premium cabin feel closer to a modern car than a legacy GA aircraft, at a premium price.
What's different about the Cirrus SR22T
- Adds a turbocharger and oxygen to the SR22 airframe, so it cruises in the high-teens-to-flight-levels and tops weather the normally-aspirated SR22 cannot.
- Built for pilots who routinely fly long legs, cross high terrain, or want altitude in reserve — same CAPS parachute and glass panel as the SR22.
- The turbo means a higher fuel burn and a turbo-overhaul reserve, so it rewards owners who actually use the altitude rather than fly low and short.
Cirrus SR22 vs Cirrus SR22T — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
What does the “T” in SR22T mean?
Turbo. The SR22T adds a turbocharger and oxygen to the same airframe, parachute, and glass panel, letting it cruise in the high teens and flight levels — up to around 213 kt at altitude — where the normally-aspirated SR22 cannot go.
Is the turbo worth it?
Only if you actually fly high and long. The SR22T tops weather and crosses high terrain better, but it burns more fuel and carries a turbo-overhaul reserve. A pilot who mostly flies low and short is usually better served by the simpler, cheaper SR22.
Do they cost the same to own?
No. The turbo SR22T has a higher fuel burn and the added turbo-overhaul reserve, so it costs more per hour than the normally-aspirated SR22 — the price of the altitude capability.