Whilst I was training in the R22 the CFI said "if you can fly the R22, then you will be able to fly any other helcopter", on thinking about this, thats rather like saying the same about bicycles or cars, but in true fact the R22 makes your reactions so quick that you need to chill a little when flying other larger types.
The R22 is a good machine, it has its shortcommings but a lot of flying hours have been put through this small helicopter, if it could grow a little, say to the size just bellow the R44, with a better head, a proper stick system and a greater load capacity( people+ golf sticks), a small turbine and a lower CG, then it would be great, until then I fear that we will still see the sad end to some unwary flyers, due to small componants giving up whilst in use.
These are just my thoughts, but it seems strange for the authorities in BOTH the US and Europe to accept training schools using the R22 when the owner of the design always states after any training accident, The R22 Helicopter is not a trainer!!
Thats like saying cars are not made to transport passengers and luggage.
