The brilliant BRS/Cirrus CAPS system was responsible for saving a man's life this past Thursday.

The Aero-News Network reports Cirrus pilot Ilan Reich, 50, apparently blacked out while flying his SR22 over southern New York at an altitude of about 3,000 feet. He testified to the fact no mechanical failure was involved.

Once he awoke Reich found himself in a dive (remember, he was flying at 3,000 feet AGL) and attempted to recover. Still disoriented, he did have the presence of mind to deploy the chute, which he said resulted in a big "jolt."

He landed in water and was able to exit the aircraft safely thanks to another safety feature on the plane, a hammer. He had a lifejacket aboard as well.

The aircraft floated in the water for a period of time, then sank.