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FullTravelFree
17th Jan 2015, 10:55
A few years ago I've seen an old FAA circular or recommendation
on wind speed limitations / recommendations for R44.

Now I can't find it back, does anyone know where to find this document?

Thanks in advance!

FTF

Camp Freddie
17th Jan 2015, 13:36
gusting up to 25 with a max gust spread of 15 for low time pilots <200 hours in helicopters, or <50 hours on type, continued flight in turbulence prohibited.

Edit: FAA AD 95-26-05

Arrrj
19th Jan 2015, 07:30
[QUOTE]After reviewing the available data, the FAA has determined that it
is appropriate to rescind AD 95-26-05 to eliminate unnecessary
limitations and procedures. The limitations and procedures imposed by
that AD are no longer needed to correct an unsafe condition.
This proposed action would rescind AD 95-26-05. Rescission of AD
95-26-05 would constitute only such action and if followed by a final
action would not preclude the agency from issuing another action in the
future nor would it commit the agency to any course of action in the
future./QUOTE]

That said...25 knots for a low hour guy sounds fair. 35 knots is my limit in a 44...unless I'm flying over the ocean, and then use your brain...i.e. 35 knots over the ocean is WAY different (better) than over land.

Arrrj

23 Inches
25th Jan 2015, 11:04
Arrrj

What's the R66 like in the gusts / winds..?

If it's anymore than 25kts... I generally think twice about a long trip in my 44. I find that I fly with conscious effort at making an aft cyclic input to load the disc if thing don't feel right after a big gust or thermal.

Arrrj
27th Jan 2015, 08:03
The 66 does not like cross winds, due to the huge tail fin. The 44 is better in this regard.

Otherwise it is very much like a 44 in high winds, but can cruise at 130 knots.

Arrrj

feathering tickles
27th Jan 2015, 11:53
Surely the 66 tail fin is similar in size to a 44's?

Camp Freddie
27th Jan 2015, 14:59
In my experience the R66 is noticeably more jumpy in turbulence due to lighter weight (300lbs or so)

13snoopy
29th Jan 2015, 03:53
Sorta off topic, but it's not the higher winds as far flying at normal cruise altitude that I've found concerning in the R44. It's the landing, particularly in confined areas, that gets maddening in windy and gusty conditions, especially if you are at low gross weight.
I find the R44 has great tail rotor authority for a small heli.

FullTravelFree
29th Jan 2015, 08:37
Thanks for the answer, now I know why I couldn't find that AD.

I mostly worry about starting and stopping the rotors in strong winds.

FTF