FAA Refines Rules for Robinson Helicopter Part Checks
Published Date: 1/30/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you fly a Robinson R44 or R44 II helicopter, this new rule update keeps all the old safety checks but makes the alternative inspections clearer and adds a new paint remover option. You’ll still need to inspect certain parts regularly and fix any problems fast to keep flying safe. These changes help pilots avoid trouble and keep helicopters in top shape without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
R44/R44 II Inspection Requirements Stay
If you operate a Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 or R44 II, the proposed rule would keep all existing inspection and corrective-action requirements from Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2024-19-11. That means you must continue visually inspecting the flex plate assembly, certain clutch shaft forward yokes, and each flex plate bolt, and you must take corrective actions depending on inspection results.
Yoke Removal or In-Depth Inspection Path
The rule keeps the existing requirement that certain clutch shaft forward yokes must be removed from service within a specified threshold or, as an alternative, you may perform the in-depth inspections described in AD 2024-19-11. Operators must follow one of these compliance paths for affected yokes.
Alternative Inspections Are Repetitive
The proposed AD clarifies that the alternative, in-depth inspections allowed by AD 2024-19-11 are repetitive. That means when you choose the alternative inspection method, you must repeat those inspections on a recurring basis as specified under the AD.
New Paint Remover Option Allowed
The proposed AD adds a specific paint remover option that may be used when performing the alternative, in-depth inspections described in AD 2024-19-11. This gives maintenance personnel an additional approved tool or method to use during those inspections.
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