This was the other Robinson I spotted while visiting the Nanaimo Flying Club! A Robinson R44 Helicopter.
The Robinson R44 Helicopter is a popular light utility helicopter designed and manufactured by Robinson Helicopter Company. Here are some basic details:
- Type: Four-seat, single-engine helicopter.
- Engine: Typically powered by a Lycoming IO-540 six-cylinder, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine.
- Cruise Speed: Approximately 130 mph (209 km/h).
- Range: With standard fuel, it has a range of about 300 nautical miles (556 km).
- Service Ceiling: Around 14,000 feet (4,267 meters).
- Empty Weight: Varies by model, but typically around 1,500 lbs (680 kg).
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) for the standard R44, with variations for other models like the Raven series.
- First Flight: The prototype first flew in 1990.
- Production: Entered production in 1993 and has been one of the best-selling helicopters in its class.
The R44 comes in several variants, including the standard R44, the R44 Raven, R44 Raven II, and the more recent R44 Cadet (a two-seat trainer version). These helicopters are used for various roles including personal transportation, flight training, law enforcement, and aerial photography due to their affordability, reliability, and ease of maintenance.
Happy Flying!