Cirrus’ Jet Delivers (A Coaster)

Perhaps the biggest question among those who received the so-called “grey box” on Cirrus’ plans for “the-jet” revolves not around the engine, the design or the performance (none of which were addressed in detail). What’s up with the coaster? The centerpiece of the marketing package is a heavy cast-metal drink coaster emblazoned with the Cirrus logo. There’s also a letter from CEO Alan Klapmeier and an “initial position holding deposit” form, which, when accompanied by a check for $100,000, puts the recipient among the first in line to buy a “the-jet.” If the intent of the initial marketing program was to raise the curiosity of potential buyers, it appears to have done that — the members’ discussion forum on the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Web site is buzzing with commentary from those who have received the package (and questions from those who haven’t). But if the intent was to gather $100,000 deposits some buyers will clearly opt to wait for more details about the jet. Details so far are limited, see Monday’s AVweb coverage for more.