Cirrus’ Perspective Electronic Stability and Protection (Perspective ESP) and Hypoxia Recognition and Automatic Descent Mode systems have earned FAA approval, bringing unique upgrades to Cirrus pilots flying with the Perspective package. The ESP system operates when a pilot is hand-flying the aircraft and helps correct excessive pitch, roll or airspeed situations. It activates automatically, even when the autopilot is turned off, whenever the aircraft exceeds preset parameters. Cirrus likens it to traction and stability control for aircraft and says the system is unobtrusive and augments the aircraft’s natural flight stability. The hypoxia recognition system functions as part of Perspective ESP and engages when a pilot is flying at oxygen-required altitudes and remains unresponsive for a period of time. The system engages an automated altitude step-down recovery if the pilot is incapacitated due to lack of oxygen. Pilots can override the systems or simply shut them off. Perspective ESP does offer other features.
Users have underspeed protection and coupled go-around capability (which leaves the autopilot on during go arounds to preserve a stall margin). The system works via Garmin hardware and software. See Cirrus’ Perspective ESP brochure here. Perspective ESP was introduced at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2010. Now Cirrus says, “Both Perspective ESP and Hypoxia Recognition are available immediately and only on Cirrus Aircraft equipped with the Cirrus Perspective by Garmin avionics suite and the all-digital Garmin GFC 700 autopilot.” Cirrus owners that have purchased a new Cirrus since Aug. 1, 2010, can contact Cirrus for software installation of these newest safety upgrades.
