“Cirrus Aircraft Corporation Update” Hangar Flying Session

“Cirrus Aircraft Corporation Update”

Gary Black, Cirrus Aircraft Corporation

We are very fortunate to have Cirrus Aircraft Corporation right here in Minnesota! Gary will highlight the history of Cirrus, as well as new developments that are underway at this innovative and progressive aircraft manufacturer. Special attention will be given to flight testing and the ballistic recovery system that is an inherent part of the Cirrus aircraft.

Gary Black is the Great Plains Regional Sales Director for Cirrus Aircraft based in Duluth, MN. He was one of the test pilots responsible for the flight testing and certification of the Cirrus SR20 and SR22. He has also served as the Director of Flight Operations, Central Division Director and Jet Sales Director. Gary is a member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots and was a presenter at the SETP National Symposium on the testing of the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) which has saved 105 lives to date. He flew previously as a test pilot for Maule, Piper and Socata Aircraft companies. Prior to being a civilian test pilot, Gary completed a career with the US Navy flying F-14 Tomcats off of aircraft carriers. Gary holds a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology, and completed his MBA work. He also attended the Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN), in NAS Miramar, CA. Gary holds single and multiengine ratings with instructor certificates. He enjoys flying float and classic aircraft as well. He has been married to Celeste Curley-Black for over 30 years and they have two daughters, Amelia (22) and Jacqueline (13), who also love to fly.