EASA also certifies the C172 product; company up to 167 saves

Ballistic Recovery Systems, Inc. announced Wednesday at AirVenture 2004 that it has received certification from the FAA on a parachute system for the Cessna 182 aircraft, model years 1964 to the present. In addition, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) also recently approved the BRS system for the Cessna 172, further expanding the system's global reach in the aviation community.

"We are excited about being able to offer an emergency parachute system for the Cessna 182 models of aircraft along with the system for the Cessna 172's. These systems incorporate the same life-saving technology that has been incorporated into all of Cirrus Design's aircraft as standard equipment," said BRS President and CEO Mark Thomas. "If we can make our products available for more aircraft, we think we can get more people flying. Our objective is to convince pilots that it is not just an inherent safety improvement for them, but it's an improvement in the perception of safety for the passengers that fly with them."

In related news, BRS' tally of "saves" now stands at 167, after another Cirrus aircraft owner deployed the parachute at night, this time over mountain terrain in Canada. Albert Kolk, of Picture Butte, Alberta, a low-time VFR pilot, was travelling with three family members when he apparently lost control of the aircraft and immediately pulled the lever and deployed the BRS. The aircraft landed in a rocky incline amid some trees, and no one was injured. According to the Calgary Sun, Kolk gave credit for the save to "the Lord God Almighty."

FMI: www.brsparachutes.com