Robinson Helicopters Inspected: FAA Clarifies Safety Checks
Published Date: 6/6/2025
Rule
Summary
If you own a Robinson R44 or R44 II helicopter, this new rule updates an earlier safety check on some important parts like the flex plate and clutch shaft yokes. It keeps the same inspections but makes the alternative checks clearer and adds a special paint remover to help. You’ll need to keep up with these repeated inspections to keep flying safe, but no big new costs are expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
R44 / R44 II inspections remain required
If you own a Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 or R44 II, this rule supersedes AD 2024-19-11 and requires you to continue visually inspecting the flex plate assembly and clutch shaft forward yokes, including each flex plate bolt, and to take corrective actions when problems are found. The rule keeps the same inspection requirements from AD 2024-19-11 to address the unsafe condition on these helicopters.
Alternative inspections must be repeated
The AD clarifies that the alternative in-depth inspections for certain yokes are repetitive, meaning those alternative checks must be performed on a recurring basis rather than as a one-time option. This changes how operators must schedule and perform those alternate inspections under the AD.
New paint remover option added
The AD adds a specific paint remover option that may be used when performing the alternative in-depth inspections on the yokes. This gives inspectors an additional approved tool to help carry out those inspections.
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