Deep down I’ve always been a helicopter guy! haha, I spotted this one while I was at the Nanaimo Airport checking things out!
The Robinson R22 Helicopter is a popular light utility and training helicopter manufactured by Robinson Helicopter Company. Here are some basic details:
- Type: Two-seat, piston-engine helicopter.
- First Flight: The prototype first flew in 1975, with production models starting in 1979.
- Engine: Powered by a Lycoming O-360 four-cylinder, air-cooled, carbureted engine, which produces 145 horsepower at sea level.
- Performance:
- Cruise Speed: Approximately 100 mph (161 km/h).
- Maximum Speed: Around 108 mph (174 km/h).
- Range: About 250 miles (402 km) with no reserve.
- Service Ceiling: 14,000 feet (4,267 meters).
- Dimensions:
- Length: 28 feet 8 inches (8.7 meters) with rotors turning.
- Height: 8 feet 11 inches (2.7 meters).
- Rotor Diameter: 25 feet (7.6 meters).
- Weight:
- Empty Weight: Approximately 880 pounds (399 kg).
- Max Takeoff Weight: 1,370 pounds (621 kg).
- Design Features:
- The R22 has a semi-rigid two-bladed main rotor and a two-bladed tail rotor.
- It’s known for its cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and ease of maintenance, making it a favored choice for flight schools.
- The helicopter uses a skid landing gear rather than wheels.
- Safety: There have been concerns regarding safety, particularly with regards to the design’s susceptibility to mast bumping in certain conditions. However, when operated within its limitations, it has a safety record comparable to other light helicopters.
Please note, while these details provide a general overview, specific models and configurations might have slightly different specs. If you need more precise or updated information, I can assist you with a web search.
The pilot and I spoke for about 20 minutes and then I had to go as well as he had to continue his cross country flight! I hope it went well for him!