From Concept to Cockpit: How MSI Helped Cirrus Make Aviation History

At Marking Systems, Inc. (MSI), we are incredibly proud to announce our groundbreaking collaboration with Cirrus Aircraft on their revolutionary SR Series G7+ airplane. This innovative aircraft features the game-changing Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system – the world’s first FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing system for a single-engine piston aircraft. This partnership marks a significant milestone in aviation history and underscores MSI’s commitment to cutting-edge manufacturing.

The Lifesaving Technology: Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland

Over the past year and a half, our dedicated teams at MSI have worked hand-in-hand with Cirrus Aircraft, combining unparalleled innovation, engineering excellence, and specialized expertise. Our shared goal was to bring this life-saving technology to the skies.

Designed for critical, emergency situations, the award-winning Safe Return™ system provides unprecedented peace of mind for everyone on board. At the push of a single button, this remarkable technology takes complete control of the aircraft. It automatically:

• Sends emergency alerts to air traffic control.
• Navigates to the nearest suitable airport.
• Safely lands the plane – all without human intervention.

This level of automation in an emergency significantly enhances aircraft safety and sets a new standard for private aviation.

MSI’s Critical Role: The Emergency Autoland Lighted Overlay Interface

MSI was entrusted with the crucial task of producing the Emergency Autoland (EAL) Lighted Overlay Interface. This component is the essential, front-and-center interface of the aircraft’s Autoland system. When an emergency strikes, the EAL lighted overlay is the first thing passengers see, serving as their initial reassurance that they are going to be safe. It’s far more than just a label or button; it’s a vital symbol of clarity, control, and security when it matters most.

Why Cirrus Chose MSI: Expertise in Aerospace Manufacturing

Cirrus Aircraft selected MSI as their partner for this challenging project due to our renowned expertise in overlays, full keypad/membrane switch design, production, and assembly. Our robust Rapid Prototyping program also played a key role in accelerating the development process.

We leveraged our extensive capabilities and deep expertise in several critical areas to meet Cirrus Aircraft’s exacting specifications:

• Materials Science: Selecting and working with advanced materials for extreme conditions.
• Tight Tolerances: Ensuring precision and accuracy in every component.
• Precise Registration: Achieving perfect alignment for complex designs.
• Exceptional Durability: Manufacturing components that can withstand the rigors of flight.

Combined with rigorous inspection processes, functional testing, precise color management, and meticulous density and opacity control, we delivered a final product that not only met but exceeded Cirrus Aircraft’s high standards.

MSI: Your Trusted Partner in High-Stakes Projects

Backed by numerous quality and technical certifications, including ISO 9001, and decades of experience in the aviation industry, MSI excels at bringing complex, high-stakes projects to life. We are passionate about tackling the toughest design and production challenges our partners entrust to us, from intricate lighted overlays to robust membrane switches.

We are truly honored to collaborate with an industry leader like Cirrus Aircraft, whose unwavering commitment to innovation and safety is actively shaping the future of aviation. Together, we are proud to be a part of aviation history and to help make flying safer, more accessible, and more secure for everyone.

Ready to Build the Future Together?

Do you have a complex design or production challenge that requires unparalleled expertise in aerospace manufacturing, lighted overlays, or membrane switches? MSI is ready to take it on.

Give us a direct call at 972-475-0770 and let’s build the future together.