FAA Issues Tailored Safety Rules for Upgraded R66 Helicopter
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Rule
Summary
Skyryse is upgrading the Robinson R66 helicopter with a cool new digital fly-by-wire control system that’s different from what current safety rules cover. Because of this, the FAA is setting special safety rules to make sure the helicopter stays just as safe as before. These new rules kick in on June 5, 2026, affecting Skyryse, Robinson, and anyone flying or certifying these helicopters.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
FBW R66 Must Prove Longitudinal Stability
The Robinson Model R66 helicopter as modified by Skyryse with a four-axis full authority digital fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control system must be shown to have suitable static longitudinal stability in any condition normally encountered in service. The showing must be based primarily on positive control movement and include assessment of handling qualities, pilot workload, cues, and pilot compensation. These special conditions are effective June 5, 2026 and become part of the type certification basis.
Special Conditions Follow To Other R00015LA Models
If Skyryse or another applicant later applies for a supplemental type certificate to install the same FBW feature on any other model included on Type Certificate No. R00015LA, these same special conditions will apply to that model as well. That means future applicants modifying any other R00015LA models to incorporate this novel FBW design must meet the same longitudinal stability showing.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2026-16803, Notice of Availability, Notice of Public Comment Period and Request for Comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment for Reditus Space ENOS Reentries in the Gulf of America
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA) and FAA Order 1050.1G, FAA National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures, the FAA is announcing the availability of and requesting comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment for Reditus Space ENOS Reentries in the Gulf of America (Draft EA).
2026-16795, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737 -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of nuisance stick shaker activation while accelerating to cruise speed at the top of a climb due to frozen angle of airflow (AOA) sensor vanes. This proposed AD would require installing new external case heaters (ECHs) on the left and right AOA sensors, performing repetitive functional tests and applicable corrective actions, and accomplishing applicable concurrent actions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
2026-16804, Establishment of Class E Airspace; Trading Bay Production Airport, Trading Bay, AK
This action proposes to establish Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Trading Bay Production Airport, Trading Bay, AK. This action would support the safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations at the airport.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-08931, Conforming Change for Approving a Making Application
Starting May 6, 2026, anyone applying to make a special NFA firearm must have a background check done through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. This update just makes sure the rules match the law and won’t add extra costs or delays. Gun makers and applicants will see clearer, smoother approval steps thanks to this change.
Next: 2026-08941, Safety Zones; Recurring Events in Captain of the Port Duluth Zone
On July 4, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce a safety zone in Superior Bay during the 4th of July fireworks to keep everyone safe on the water. Boat operators in the area must follow instructions from Coast Guard patrols between 9:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. This temporary rule helps prevent accidents but doesn’t involve any fees or costs.