ROBINSON R66 PASSES FAA SNOW TEST
Torrance, CA – On November 13th, in Spray Lakes, Canada, Robinson’s R66 Turbine passed the
FAA’s and Transport Canada’s test to allow flight in snow conditions. The stringent test requires
extended flight in weather conditions that are difficult to find even in Canada. When alerted by
Canadian based dealer Eric Gould of Aerial Recon that the right combination of visibility,
temperature and storm duration was finally on the way, Robinson responded swiftly.
The test was conducted during a heavy snow storm with low visibility at freezing temperatures,
conditions that have been shown to produce worst-case snow accumulation at the helicopter turbine
engine intakes. The test consisted of a 100% engine ground run for 20 minutes, IGE hover for 5
minutes, and 60 minutes of cruise flight. Performance was monitored using pressure instruments
and a live video feed from a camera mounted near the engine air filter.
The test requires that snow build-up not block the engine air intake or adversely affect engine
operation. Despite the extreme weather conditions, no snow build-up occurred in the engine intake
area and no decrease in engine performance was detected.
Passing the test is significant as it allows Robinson to eliminate the existing limitation in the R66
Pilot’s Operating Handbook which prohibits flight in falling or blowing snow.
Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company is the world’s leading manufacturer of civil
helicopters. For additional information, www.robinsonheli.com, or click here to download a copy of the Robinson press release.
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