Robinson Helicopter Company is now offering a symmetrical horizontal stabilizer for R44 helicopter models and has made the design standard on all new R44 models. Retrofit kits for earlier R44s are available at a discounted price of $3,600 until Dec. 31, 2024. The normal list price of the KI-285-2 retrofit kit is $7,050.
The symmetrical stabilizer was first certified on the turbine R66 in September and provides “enhanced handling characteristics during high-speed flight,” according to Robinson Helicopter. Included in the kit is a new stabilizer that can be installed on existing tailcones; new-production R44s will come with an updated tailcone design.
Work is underway to certify the new empennage configuration through validations with regulatory authorities in other countries. Once validated, Robinson Helicopter will deliver new R44s with the symmetrical stabilizer as standard.
“Robinson continues to invest in engineering enhancements that make our aircraft more accessible and easier to fly,” said Robinson Helicopter president Kurt Robinson. “Our aim is to deliver unrivaled safety and reliability so pilots can accomplish their mission with confidence.”