SR22
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 26; Flight Crew Total 173; Flight Crew Type 139
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Aircraft
I was flying an IFR flight. About 10 miles west of [destination] at 3000 feet; I noticed a steady decline in the oil pressure. I thought it might be a sensor at first; but the gauge was steadily declining vs. jumping around; so I thought there was a potentially serious problem with the plane. At the time; ATC was vectoring me for a visual approach.  I knew that I was likely to be brought down towards beach before being turned inland for the final approach. I requested being granted priority handling and they told me to descend to 1600 feet. After a few seconds; I decided that it would be best to get the plane on the ground vs. continuing south and risk an engine loss over a heavily populated area so I [advised ATC]. I was asked [which runway I wanted]. I took a runway straight in from my position.  When I landed; tower informed me that there was a trail of black smoke behind me.  I took off with 7 quarts of oil and when I landed I had just over 1; so an engine out scenario was in fact imminent.
SR22 pilot reported a loss of oil pressure while on approach.