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Old 1st Jul 2009, 16:47
  #22 (permalink)  
skiddriver
 
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: USA
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It's comparing apples and oranges because of the differences in testing and delivery requirements, but if Nick goes to the Tech Pub library at his current employer and pulls the AH-1W NATOPS manual, he'll see a very useful chart (two charts actually) that provide the minimum hover height and airspeed for a safe OEI landing at a range of density altitudes and gross weights. We understood a "safe landing" as to be one which would result in no injury and minimal aircraft damage.

When I was working as a TP at Pax River on the H-1 program, we had a well defined test process (as did Bell) to develop and test these numbers. To be clear, we verified manufacturer numbers, Bell developed them.

The information was useful, though due to airspeed indicator unreliability below 40 knots, the minimum airspeed number was advisory at best. The ground speed indicator and maintaining an awareness of wind direction was of some help.

There is no reason other than liability concern that prevents manufacturers from providing this data to dual engine helicopter pilots.
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