Garmin Announces Major Perspective+ Flight Deck Upgrade for Cirrus SR Series G3 and G5 Aircraft
Garmin has announced plans to release a significant upgrade to the Cirrus Perspective+™ flight deck, bringing enhanced technology and safety features to Cirrus SR Series G3 and G5 aircraft. The upgrade, which is expected to receive Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval in the second half of 2025, will be available through Garmin Authorized Dealers and Cirrus Factory Service Centers across the United States. It is specifically designed for Cirrus SR22T, SR22, and SR20 aircraft originally equipped with the Cirrus Perspective® avionics suite. Select G6 aircraft will also be eligible for software and connectivity enhancements.
State-of-the-Art Displays and Flight Controls
At the heart of the Perspective+ upgrade is a major modernization of the aircraft’s flight deck interface. The upgrade introduces advanced 10- or 12-inch flight displays that use powerful multi-core processors, delivering much smoother performance with faster map rendering and improved panning across the screens. These updated displays fit directly into the aircraft’s existing panel, allowing for a simplified installation process.
Accompanying the displays is a newly designed keypad that includes a full QWERTY keyboard, offering a user-friendly layout similar to modern smartphones and tablets. This makes entering flight data significantly quicker and more intuitive. A dedicated HOME button has been added to streamline navigation, instantly returning the pilot to the main navigation screen. Additionally, the updated autopilot controller now features automatic Yaw Damper functionality in supported aircraft, further enhancing flight stability and comfort.
Cutting-Edge Safety Enhancements
Garmin continues to prioritize safety through the inclusion of innovative flight tools designed to help pilots maintain situational awareness and execute safer approaches. One of the headline additions is Runway Occupancy Awareness (ROA), a component of Garmin’s Terminal Safety Solutions. ROA leverages ADS-B data to alert pilots to potential runway conflicts by detecting nearby aircraft and ground vehicles that could pose a hazard during takeoff or landing.
A new stabilized approach advisory system is also part of the upgrade. This system monitors critical parameters during approach and alerts pilots—both visually and audibly—if the aircraft becomes unstable, enabling timely corrections and promoting safer landings. For visual approach procedures, the system includes new guidance tools that support precise, stabilized visual flight paths to the runway.
Other safety enhancements include updated Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT™), which now features a 3D exocentric view of airport environments using SafeTaxi®. Pilots will also benefit from newly added features such as a horizontal situation indicator (HSI) map, a flight profile view, glide range ring, and improved sectional chart and IFR enroute chart integration on the multi-function display.
Expanded Connectivity and Convenience Features
Beyond avionics and safety upgrades, Garmin is offering a suite of connectivity enhancements that greatly improve workflow and data integration. One key optional component is the GDL® 60 datalink, which allows pilots to sync their avionics with compatible electronic flight bag (EFB) apps. This enables seamless flight plan transfers, real-time streaming of traffic and weather data, and wireless attitude syncing.
With a PlaneSync™ subscription, the GDL 60 also enables automatic updates to aviation databases and automatic offloading of flight and engine log data. This ensures that pilots are flying with current information while simplifying data management and record-keeping.
Another available option is the GI 275 standby flight instrument, which features a bright, high-resolution touchscreen display and includes a backup battery capable of powering the instrument for up to 60 minutes. Additionally, SurfaceWatch™ runway monitoring technology can be installed to provide both visual and audible alerts when pilots attempt to take off or land on an incorrect or unsuitable runway. Taxiway Routing can also be added, offering automated ground routing guidance via 2D map overlays and 3D depictions through SVT™.
Enhancements Available for Select G6 Aircraft
Garmin has not forgotten about existing Perspective+ customers. Owners of select 2017 Cirrus G6 models already equipped with the Perspective+ system will be able to access many of these new features through a software upgrade. This includes the ROA system, SurfaceWatch, Taxiway Routing, and the connectivity benefits offered by the GDL 60 and PlaneSync. These improvements allow G6 aircraft to enjoy many of the same capabilities being introduced to G3 and G5 models.
Availability and Warranty
Garmin expects to make the Perspective+ upgrade available following STC approval in the latter half of 2025. Initial availability will be limited to aircraft registered in the United States, with certifications for Europe and Canada planned in the future. All new Garmin hardware included in the upgrade will come with a two-year limited warranty.
A Commitment to Innovation
Garmin continues to lead the way in aviation technology, delivering high-performance, safety-focused avionics for pilots around the world. The company’s innovations, including the award-winning Garmin Autoland system, reflect its mission to improve aviation safety and usability. Garmin’s commitment to continual advancement is evident in the Perspective+ upgrade—an offering that brings enhanced capability and peace of mind to Cirrus aircraft owners.