Cirrus Design Advisory DVD for First Responders

News reports from the recent Cirrus accident in Zurich, Switzerland, highlight the hazards and potential for delay when first responders arrive at a Cirrus accident.

In this accident, the CAPS parachute had not deployed while the cockpit was severely damaged.  That means that hazardous conditions exist during the rescue phase.


(N467BD crashed short of runway 14 at Zurich; photo published by Keystone/AP)

First responders must be prepared to deal with pyrotechnic devices in our airplanes, the rocket, igniter and reefing line cutters, along with helium tanks if you have airbag restraints and oxygen tanks for breathing.

The Air Safety team at Cirrus Design led by Mike Busch (the safety one, not the mechanic one) travels around the world to train first responders.  Cirrus updated the video materials and advisory guide to leave behind after the training.  COPA posted copies of the materials in the COPA Safety media gallery (except the video, for now).

Please contact Mike directly to request a copy of the DVD and advisory guide via email MBusch@CirrusDesign.com or telephone 218-529-7227

In the United States, the Council of Fire Chiefs promoted these training sessions and it is likely that most first responders know about the Cirrus safety systems and their hazards.

In other countries, especially where Cirrus aircraft are increasingly common, it is likely that those first responders are aware also.

I recommend that you check where you base your Cirrus aircraft.  Talk with your local fire department or police department and see if they have these materials and if they have been trained.

Contact Mike Busch to arrange a visit on his next tour to your area.

What are the risks to First Responders?

Foremost is the rocket. 

If the parachute is clearly visible unfolded outside of the airframe, most likely the rocket has fired and no longer poses a hazard.  If not, watch the DVD and be prepared.

The rocket exits the airframe behind the baggage compartment up and behind the airplane.  It only burns for 1.5 seconds but punches through the CAPS cover at 150 mph!  Untethered, it would reach 10,000 feet.



Should the rocket and CAPS system remain inside the airplane, then the risk of activating the igniter and hence the rocket comes from stretching the activation cable at little as a quarter of an inch.  Cutting the cable with the wrong kinds of cutters or using extraction tools in the wrong places of the cabin roof could ruin their day.

First responders train to deal with hazardous situations, so the Cirrus safety systems are just another set of concerns.  They train to respond professionally and appropriately.  As a knowledgable COPA member, you can help ensure that they have the training they need. 

Help them contact Cirrus Design if they do not have these materials.