Cirrus Aircraft says it's leading the general aviation rebound with its best half-year performance since 2008.
A total of 79 aircraft were delivered in the April-June 2013 quarter, up 32% over the same period last year. This took the company's first-half deliveries to 139.
Executive VP Todd Simmons credits the Gen 5 SR22s for the result.
"Momentum at Cirrus, specifically around the Generation 5 SR22 and SR22T, is driving demand for new piston aircraft that is starting to feel closer to pre-recession levels," he said.
"These latest performance results confirm strong preference by both individuals and institutions alike for design innovation unique to Cirrus Aircraft."
According to Simmons, part of the reason for the popularity of the Gen 5 is the increase in max take-off weight to accommodate a fifth person on board, and the built-in systems.
""Our aircraft are designed with systems and features that make flying easier, safer and more accessible to a new generation of pilots, owners and operators."
"Our customers are demanding better performance, more capability and simpler entry into aircraft ownership and with Generation 5 we are offering the most sophisticated airplane in its class."
Cirrus also offers a Cirrus on Demand package, that provides new owners with a pilot to fly their aircraft whilst the owner gets up to speed with the new systems.
"These are just two of the latest solutions from Cirrus that are fueling growth. Add these to Generation 5 and the accelerated pace of the Vision Jet program and it's easy to see why customers are excited. We share that enthusiasm and the outlook is even brighter for the remainder of 2013 and into 2014," concluded Simmons.
Of the 79 delivers for Q2 2013, 65 were SR22/T and 14 were SR20s.
For comparison, Beechcraft delivered nine G36 Bonanzas, Cessna 12 T206Hs and one Corvalis TTx, and Piper 12 Malibu Mirages.