For some reason, I couldn't find the Robinson Tech thead (merged), so I'll start a new one.
Yesterday, I received an update for my R44 POH. RHC sent a notice that says:
NOTE: AD 95-26-05 has been rescinded by the FAA. The pages inserted at the ned of Sections 2, 3, and 4 to comply with the AD are no longer required and may be removed.
The page at the end of Section 2 is the R44 Limitations Section and specifies what most of us consider the "SFAR." You know, < 200 hours and/or < 50 R44 hours prohibits flight if winds are > 25 knots or if wind gust spreads > 15 knots. If further goes on to recommend 60 KIAS in moderate to extreme turbulence, provides a few definitions, etc.
The page at the end of Section 3 is is the R44 Emergency Procedures Section and discusses right roll in Low-G conditions, flight turburlence, etc. The short end is to apply gently aft cyclic to reload the rotor and in other conditions do what is necessary to maintain positive G.
The page at the end of Section 4 is the R44 Normal Procedures Section. This provides detailed recommendations concerning factors that contribute to Main Rotor Stall and Mast Bumping. Mostly it recommends keeping your head out of your a$$ when flying and to avoid sideslip and large, rapid forward cyclic inputs, etc... keeping a cruise speed > 60 KIAS.
Now, none of the Safety Notices have been removed and these aren't FAA mandated either. Obviously, these notices were required to be in the POH as part of the AD 95-26-05. My question is, does this mean
Frank finally agreed to take the R44 off SFAR requirements (especially wind restrictions relating to hours in type)?
During the last discussion of the SFAR, Frank actually pushed the FAA to continue applying it to the R44 when he really didn't have to. Is this a change in RHC philosophy that is more driven by marketing? Of course, the insurance companies will probably continue to have requirements of their own... especially Pathfinder. Interesting change of events, isn't it? Does anybody have the inside scoop on this?