Cirrus Unveils TRAC10 Trainer Designed to Revolutionize Professional Flight Schools
Cirrus, the manufacturer that introduced the aviation world to the concept of an airplane with a built-in parachute, is introducing the TRAC10, a clean-sheet design purposefully built for the instructional market. "The TRAC10 is a complete reimagining of the modern training aircraft," said Pat Waddick, president of innovation and operations at Cirrus, in a news release. "Our team challenged decades-old norms and designed in industry-leading safety, durability, ergonomics, and operational efficiency with advanced technology delivered through simple, intuitive interfaces—creating a smarter platform for the next generation of pilots." The aircraft is powered by a turbocharged Rotax 916 iSc FADEC engine attached to a three-bladed propeller that can be operated on 100LL, UL91/UL94, and selected blends of mogas, burning 5.9 gph. The aircraft is a three-place design with adjustable seats and rudder pedals for the front occupants. The back seat is situated between two large windows with an elevated position for optimal flight deck visibility. According to Cirrus, it can be equipped with a configurable display, so everyone on board can be fully immersed in the flight deck workflow. The cabin features multiple USB-C ports, cup holders at each seat, storage space, and optional air conditioning to help reduce crew fatigue and promote efficient learning. READ MORE: How NFL Quarterback Joshua Dobbs Found Freedom at the Controls of a Cirrus READ MORE: Cirrus Offers Starlink Mini Mount for SR Aircraft "Drawing on more than 30 years of designing, building, and supporting aircraft worldwide, the TRAC10 is our most deliberate answer yet to what professional flight schools need to succeed," said Zean Nielsen, CEO at Cirrus. "Our focus on safety, efficiency, connectivity, and reliability serves every stakeholder in the professional pilot training equation. We are excited for students around the world to start training in the TRAC10." Cirrus said safety remains paramount at Cirrus, so in addition to the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), the TRAC10 has the Garmin Electronic Stability & Protection (ESP) and the Blue Level Button (LVL). The aircraft is also fitted with airline-like stick shakers to warn of an impending stall and a cuffed-wing design to maximize spin resistance while promoting optimal controllability at low speeds. The aircraft features Cirrus IQ , which enhances the TRAC10 flight training operations by wirelessly transmitting data and integrating seamlessly with third-party flight debrief applications and fleet management dashboards. Operators can digitally monitor fuel, fluids such as coolant and oil temperature, and track maintenance intervals to ensure fleet safety and airworthiness. Automatic database updates keep training fleet navigation information up to date and ready to fly, eliminating the need for monthly manual updates. According to the company, the TRAC10 will be manufactured at Cirrus headquarters in Duluth, Minnesota. The company indicated it has already secured more than 100 orders for the airplane from 13 professional flight schools around the world. U.S. deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, with international deliveries to follow in '28. The TRAC10 price starts at $499,900. Cirrus TRAC10 by the Numbers Wingspan: 34.2 ft. Length: 23.8 ft. Maximum Gross Weight: 2,150 lbs. Maximum Usable Fuel: 33.5 gal. Useful Load: 750 lbs. Cabin Height: 45 in. Cabin Width: 49.6 in. Cabin Length: 94 inches Maximum Operating Altitude: 14,000 ft. Stall Speed, Flaps Down: 57 kcas Stall Speed, No Flaps: 66 kcas Maximum Cruise Speed: 139 ktas Fuel Burn at 65% Power: 5.9 gph