Report No.

01: Helicopter Preliminary

Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 1 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

PART I : MISSION PROFILE

Robinson R44 : Robinson Helicopter Company

The selected helicopter by our group to be further studied and analyzed is the Robinson
R44, mainly because of its components and several purposes which has gained popularity
throughout different sectors of aviation. As Aeronautical Engineering students, it is a good
opportunity to hone our expertise and knowledge with this helicopter and to visualize the
field application of this helicopter model. Which covers aerodynamics, principles of
helicopters, development of helicopter’s era and the business sector side of aviation.

HISTORY

In 1973, Frank Robinson left the Hughes Helicopter Company to start the Robinson
Helicopter Company (RHC) because he had an ambition of building a tiny, inexpensive
helicopter. The two-place R22 swiftly overtook all other civil helicopters as the most
popular model in the world, making Robinson into what many refer to as the "Henry Ford
of helicopters."

The R22 has, however, not been without its flaws. Although RHC didn't expect for it to
become one of the most well-liked trainers in the world, it soon became. The lightweight
rotor system of the R22 caused little inertia, which increased the possibility of low rotor
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 2 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

RPM, blade stalling, and fuselage impacts. The R22 was marred by a series of mishaps.
Additionally, the rotor design itself, which is semi-rigid and allows for rotor tilting.

The Robinson R44 is a four-seat light helicopter produced by Robinson Helicopter

Company since 1992. Based on the company's two-seat Robinson R22, the R44 features
hydraulically assisted flight controls. It was first flown on 31 March 1990 and received FAA
certification in December 1992, with the first delivery in February 1993.

Many of the R44's design elements, including the two-blade rotor system, T-bar cyclic,
and open interior cabin structure, are still present in that machine. It is powered by a 300
SHP turboshaft from a Rolls-Royce RR300, derated to 270 SHP for takeoff and 224 SHP
continuously. An airplane diesel engine that potentially replaced Robinson's Lycoming IO-
540 avgas engine has undergone ground run testing. Better altitude performance, a fuel
burn reduction from 16 to 12 US gal (61 to 45 L) per hour, and better fuel availability
might all be offered by the diesel.
DEVELOPMENT

The R44 made its first flight on March 31, 1990. It was created by Frank Robinson and his
team of engineers in the 1980s. In December 1992, the R44 Astro received an FAA Type
Certificate, and the first deliveries started in January 1993. In 1998, the first R44
Newscopter with electronic news collecting equipment on board was delivered. Robinson
unveiled the Raven, a vehicle featuring hydraulically assisted controls and movable pedals,
in January 2000. Robinson unveiled the Raven II in July 2002. The Raven II's bigger blades
and more potent, fuel-injected engine enable a higher gross weight and better altitude
performance. In November 2015, Robinson unveiled the Cadet, a Raven I with two back
seats in place of a cargo space, a slightly weaker engine, and a more effective exhaust
system. Robinson has carried out ground run testing with an aircraft diesel engine that
could replace its Lycoming IO-540 avgas engine. The diesel could provide better altitude
performance, a fuel burn reduced from 16 to 12 US gal (61 to 45 L) per hour and better
fuel availability.

Over the years, the Robinson R44 has undergone several model changes with
advancements in avionics, safety, and performance. It is still a popular option in its
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 3 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

category because it combines affordability, dependability, and versatility for a variety of

helicopter activities.

Here are some of the developed models of R44 for various businesses sector needs:

• R44 Astro - some of the first and prototype models by the Robinson Helicopter
Company which are no longer produced by the company.

• R44 Raven I - basic model, released in April 2000 to replace Astro, has a 194kW
Textron Lycoming O-540 engine that has been downrated to 168kW at takeoff and
153kW continuously. Hydraulic control system is also standard, and the pilot's pedals
can be adjusted.
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 4 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

• R44 Raven II - version upgrade made public in June 2002. First deliveries began in
November 2002 following FAA clearance on October 10. Contains a Textron Lycoming
IO-540 engine, a 28V 70A electrical system, larger main rotor blade lifting surfaces,
and aerodynamic tip caps on the main and tail rotor blades.

• R44 Clipper I & Clipper II - float-equipped versions, initially certified (as R44
Clipper) 17 July 1996. Both versions are available with twin utility floats; pop-out
floats available only on R44 Clipper II. Total of 141 Clippers sold by 1 June 2001.

• R44 Police Helicopter - Spectrolab SX-5E 15 to 20 million candlepower searchlight,

LCD video monitor, FM radio package, bubble door windows, Bendix/King KFM 985
dual-band transceiver, KY 196A VHF, II Morrow Apollo SL-60 standby comms, KT 76C
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 5 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

transponder, 28V electrical system, and extended landing gear struts are all included
in the specially modified Raven II for law enforcement. about 715 kilograms when
fully equipped and empty. First customer El Monte Police Agency of Los Angeles;
certified in July 1997. Recent clients include the Chinese Zheng Zhou Public Security
Bureau, who received one in June 2002 after participating in the China Expo 2002,
and the Estonian Air Force, which bought two in February 2002 for delivery beginning
in May 2002.

• R44 Newscopter - Ikegami HL-59WNA digital camera with x21 lens and 360°
continuous rotation with five-axis gyro stabilization, microwave transmitter, four
video monitors, two micro cameras, KY 196A VHF, KT 76C transponder (Mode C),
GPS, two FM radios, and bubble window in port door are all included in the digital
electronic news gathering (ENG) version of Raven II that is designed for media
companies. Deliveries started in January 1998, and 29 were sold by June 1st, 2002.
The 30th ENG Newscopter, the first digital ENG Raven II was delivered on February
9th, 2003, to Sky Helicopters of Garland, Texas.
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 6 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

• R44 IFR - IFR helicopter training equipment adds US$27,200 to the base price. 18
Sales as of June 1, 2001.

MISSION PROFILE

Robinson Helicopter Company is one of the largest and most well-known helicopter
companies in the world. The company engaged in the different business sector needs,
that’s why they established and positioned their name on the market which gave them an
edge over the emerging brand competitors. In 2005, the RHC (Robinson Helicopter
Company) released a statement prior to their models of R44, “The R44’s aerodynamic
fuselage optimizes airspeed and fuel economy. Hydraulic controls eliminate feedback
forces and provide responsive handling. A low tail-rotor tip speed, newly designed muffler
and large cambered tail reduce flyover noise.” Which garnered the attention of different
industries that sought more convenient ways to utilize the helicopter in accordance with
their businesses’ needs.

Robinson R44 is one of the best flagship helicopters models which other emerging brands
try to mold their own helicopter after the R44. The performance and reliability of R44 is
one of the factors to the success of the helicopter in the market, through the versatile
materials used in the production, updated instruments and avionics, such as;

• Rotor/engine dual tachometer

• Vertical speed indicator
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 7 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

• Digital OAT gage/voltmeter

• Stereo Intercom System, Single COM
• Garmin GTR 225B COM Radio
• Garmin GTX 335 Transponder w ADS-B Out
• Garmin GMA 350Hc Audio Panel
• Garmin GTN 635Xi GPS/COM
• Garmin GTN 650Xi GPS/COM/NAV
• Garmin GTN 750Xi GPS/COM/NAV
• Garmin GTX 345 Transponder with ADS-B Out/In
• Garmin GDL 69A XM Receiver
• FreeFlight RA-4500 Radar Altimeter
• Kannad 406 Integra AF-406 MHz ELT

The R44 is a versatile and popular helicopter used for various missions, including
transportation, sightseeing, training, private government uses and more. Which paved the
way for a wider market for their customers’ needs, including:

• Flight schools: The R44 is a popular choice for flight schools because it is relatively
inexpensive to operate and maintain. It is also a stable and easy-to-fly helicopter,
making it ideal for training new pilots.
• Private owners: The R44 is a popular choice for private owners who want a
helicopter for personal transportation or recreation. It is relatively small and easy to
fly, making it a good choice for pilots with limited experience.
• News and Media Team: The R44 is widely used in the field of news company
because of its’ wide range of purposes which caters to the needs of media companies.
One of the known media companies who uses R44 is CNN.
• Commercial operators: The R44 is also used by commercial operators for a variety
of missions, such as:
o Passenger Transport: The R44 can be configured to carry up to four
passengers, making it a good choice for air taxi services or scenic flights.
o Ambulance Services: The R44 can be equipped to carry a stretcher and
medical equipment, making it a good choice for air ambulance services.
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 8 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

o Police and Fire Departments: The R44 can be used for a variety of law
enforcement and fire department missions, such as search and rescue,
surveillance, and traffic enforcement.
o Logging and Agricultural Operations: The R44 can be used for a variety
of logging and agricultural operations, such as aerial spraying and surveying.

With its known capabilities the market and sales for this helicopter are rising every year,
one of the factors why different industries always go back to them is because of their after
sales service. Numerous used/second hand R44 are still being sold in the market with a
starting price of $415,000 depending on the model and year manufactured, and for the
brand new R44 the price ranges from $600,000 to $850,000 varying from the model and
specifications that the customers want.

Wide array of purposes and uses is what Robinson R44 is known for. Which contributed
to the development of General Aviation (GA) use. Here are some of its detailed purposes:

• Sightseeing and air tours

• Aerial photography and videography
• Search and rescue (SAR)
• Law enforcement
• Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
• Utility work, such as power line inspection and construction
• Flight training

Over the years, the Robinson R44 has undergone several model changes with
advancements in avionics, safety, and performance. Numerous prototyping was made to
produce the best model of R44, with their experimental intervention and simulation it
boosted their process to create a quality model of R44. It is still a popular option in its
category because it combines affordability, dependability, and versatility for a variety of
helicopter activities. This mission profile, which outlines the goals, procedures, and safety
precautions for the Robinson R44 day to day operation, has been thoroughly constructed.
Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 9 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

PART II : TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1. General Characteristics

Helicopter Type:

i. Nature Conservation Helicopter

ii. Commuter Helicopter
iii. Police Helicopter
iv. Tourism Helicopter
v. News & Media Helicopter
vi. Air Ambulance Helicopter
vii. Agriculture Helicopter
viii. Single Main Rotor Helicopter

Landing Gear: Skid

Tail/Empennage: Conventional

Crew: 1 or 2 Pilots

Capacity: Four (4), including pilots

Payload: 748 lb (339.29 kg)

Length: 38 ft., 3 in. (11.65 m)

Rotor Diameter: 33.10 ft. (10.10 m)

Tail Rotor Diameter: 4 ft., 10 in. (1.50 m)

Height: 10.80 ft. (3.30 m)

Empty Weight: 1,449.60 lb (657.70 kg)

Loaded Weight: 2,499.30 lb (1,134 kg)

Fuel: 100 low lead (100LL) fuel or 100/130

Main Tank Capacity: 31.60 U.S. gallons (120 L)

Main Tank Usable Fuel: 30.60 US gallons (116 L)

Report No. 01: Helicopter Preliminary
Group Name: Skylander
Specifications
Date: 11 Oct. 23 Page 10 of 10
Instructor:
Engr. Shiara Denise M. Valencia Issue No: 3 Rating:

Auxiliary Tank Capacity: 18.50 U.S. gallons (70 L)

Auxiliary Tank Usable Fuel: 18.30 U.S. gallons (69 L)

Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming IO-540-AE1A5 6-cylinder, flat engine with fuel injection,

245 bhp (183 kW)
Number of Propeller Blades: Two-bladed Main Rotor / Two-bladed Tail Rotor
2. Performance
Maximum Speed: 130 knots; 150 mph (240 km/h)
Cruise Speed: 110 knots; 130 mph (200 km/h)
Range: 350 mi; 300 NM; (560 km)
Fuel Consumption: 15 U.S. gallons (57 L) of avgas per hour
Flying Roof: 14,108 ft. (4,300 m)
Altitude Restrictions: 14,000 ft. (4,300 m) density altitude or 9,000 ft. (2,700 m)
above ground level in order to be able to reach ground within five (5) minutes in case
of fire.
REFERENCES
https://kishuguaviation.co.za/robinson-r44/
https://www.escuelapilotohelicoptero.com/en/helicopters/robinson-r44/
https://www.globalair.com/aircraft-for-sale/specifications?specid=1080
Robinson Model R44 helicopter - development history, photos, technical data. (n.d.).
Aviastar. Retrieved September 9, 2023, from
https://www.aviastar.org/helicopters_eng/robinson-44.php
estaff. (2014, August 19). Robinson R44. Aviation Consumer. Retrieved September 11,
2023, from https://www.aviationconsumer.com/used-aircraft-guide/robinson-r44/