rps wrote: brevity snip

2) CAPS can be deployed only after getting the speed down to about 133
knots. His cruise speed would probably have been about 180 knots. If
he decided to deploy the CAPS, his wing may have stalled while he
attempted to get his airspeed down to CAPS deployment speed.

I've never flown in icing conditions... but ISTM he'd be able to slow
his airspeed to 133kts. via the elevator and flaps... as long as the
wing was still flying, that is. The Cirrus site mentions CAPS has been
"flight tested -to- 135kts".

The POH reads: Once the decision is made to deploy CAPS, the following
actions
should be taken:
1. Airspeed.......MINIMUM POSSIBLE

The maximum demonstrated deployment speed is 133 KIAS.
Reducing airspeed allows minimum parachute loads and prevents
structural overload and possible parachute failure.
http://www.cirrusdesign.com/servicec...InfoManual.pdf
or http://tinyurl.com/sz3sj

No mention that CAPS -can't- or -won't- deploy above 133kts.

However, we don't yet know why he
didn't pull the 'chute handle and so can't yet call him stupid for that.

We don't yet know if he yanked the handle and it didn't deploy. Also
from the POH:

· WARNING ·
Jerking or rapidly pulling the activation T-handle will greatly
increase the pull forces required to activate the rocket. Use a firm
and steady pulling motion - a "chin-up" type pull enhances
successful activation.

Pretty tough to remember -that- as the ground is rushing toward you and
the cabin is filling with odors, I'll bet...
-----

- gpsman