To: Vfrpilotpb
During the certification of the R-22 the Normal category Rotorcraft Certification requirements stipulated that among other maneuvers the helicopter had to demonstrate the following:
1) At flight speed .96 or .69 VNE (I don’t remember which and I’m too lazy to check the document) the pilot had to hit the left pedal to the stops and hold the helicopter in that position for a period of time. He would then return the pedals to the flight neutral position and then hit the opposite pedal to the stops and hold the helicopter in that position for a period of time. This maneuver is the first part of the quick stop as described above.
2) At flight speed (see above) the pilot was required to fly the helicopter 10-degrees out of trim first left and then right holding the helicopter in that position for a period of time.
The purpose of this demonstration was to ensure that the helicopter would not enter into or encounter any dangerous conditions. That was when the helicopter was certified.
Now, let’s fast forward to 1995 when section 4 of the POH was modified to restrict the R-22 and R-44 from sideslipping and flying out of trim.
If you remember way back when I first posted on this form I indicated that the Robinson helicopter as presently restricted could not be certified since it could not demonstrate the above maneuvers.
The reason for the restriction was that these maneuvers could result in high flapping loads and excursions and result in mast bumping.
Now, try and tell that to cattle mustering pilots in Oz.