The FAA has approved Robinson’s new empennage design for the R44.
Robinson Helicopter Company has announced that following FAA approval, its R44 will be fitted with the symmetrical stabiliser design first approved for the R66 in September last year. Like its turbine sister, the new empennage, which, besides the symmetrical stabiliser, also includes a redesigned tailcone, is aimed at improving handling characteristics in high-speed flight.
While Robinson is pursuing approvals from EASA and other regulatory bodies, for the moment, the new design will only be used on aircraft destined for the FAA register.
“Robinson continues to invest in engineering enhancements that make our aircraft more accessible and easier to fly,” said Kurt Robinson, President of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Our aim is to deliver unrivalled safety and reliability so pilots can accomplish their mission with confidence.”
Retrofit for existing aircraft
Owners of existing R44s can opt to modify their aircraft to incorporate the new empennage with a retrofit kit. Robinson is offering the KI-285-2 kit to R44 owners at a significant discount until the end of the year. Until 31 December, the kit is available from Robinson dealers and service centres for US$3,600 (compared with a standard retail price of $7,050).
See FAA R66 Stabiliser approval, click HERE
See R66 empennage kit, click HERE
