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R44 tied down in 25-30 kts


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Purchased a new R44 last Friday from RHC (3 days ago) the wind was too gusty to land next to my hangar. Instead it was unfortunately left in the transit tie down area with gusts up to 33 Kts. Blades were secured using the standard tie downs. About (5) hours later the helo was rolled into the FBO hangar.

 

I inspected the rotors and no mast contact etc. The ship looks well.

 

Question: Has anyone experienced any damage in 30-35 kts of wind on the ramp in an R44 or similar?

 

Thanks! I have 70 hours TT PIC.

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Given the blades were tied down per the Robinson guidelines, no damage is normally the outcome. The guidelines or in section 8 of the R44 POH, however, chapter 10 in the R66 maintenance manual has a more complete guide, see section 10-11, “Parking in High Winds or Turbulent Air.” Also see AC 20-35C , “Tiedown Sense”, section on helicopters near the end of the document.

 

R66 Maintenance Manual Chapter 10 Parking and Storage

 

Tiedown Sense AC 20-35C

Edited by iChris
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iChris,

 

Thank you for the reply. Interesting caveat: R66 MM has more info vs. R44 MM on tiedown security.

 

I followed the POH & MM guidance regarding mooring and there was no damage insofar I can see. AC 20-35C is good general guidance for all small aircraft, a very good review. Its been awhile since I read it. I appreciate the link.

 

Note: I attended and passed RHC Maintenance Course this month. Pilot Safety Course next...

 

-Ted

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30-35 knots is nothing worth noting if your blades were secured. The biggest risk would be objects being blown into the aircraft. Not sure what the limitations are in an R44 but in a B206 those conditions are good enough to go fly! LoL

Edited by SBuzzkill
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