Robinson Helicopter Co are continuing to work through a number of outstanding issues in getting the R66 certified in Europe by EASA.  THe main obstacle remains the design of the hydraulic servo.  EASA is evaluating what is referred to as an “Equivalent Level Of Safety” finding which is in progress between RHC and the FAA.

Robinson are to have the opportunity to present directly to a panel of experts before a final decision is made by EASA – but no date has yet been set for this.  RHC are confident they can answer any questions put to them by this panel.

Meanwhile, RHC continues to work with FAA and Transport Canada to complete the ELOS to get the R66 certified in Canada.  Many months have passed in this process, although RHC are hopeful that the list of final requirements for Transport Canada will be issued shortly. The delay is currently on the FAA side for them to submit responses to questions posed by Transport Canada.  Once these all meet with Transport Canada approval, RHC expects testing should be completed within a month.

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com