SAIB SW-09-36

FAA Aircraft Certification Service

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN SAIB: SW-09-36 SUBJ: Robinson Helicopter Company Hot Weather Operation Date: June 30, 2009 This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) alerts owners and operators of the potential for fuel vapor in high ambient temperatures and altitude on Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) Model R44 II helicopters.

Background

There is a report of unexplained engine power loss in a new Model R44 Raven II during its ferry flight from factory. The power loss occurred in ambient conditions of approximately 100 ºF.

Initially, fuel system vapor was the suspected cause, and RHC recommended restricting operations to temperatures below 105 ºF. Subsequent factory tests have shown satisfactory fuel system operation in ambient temperatures up to 115 ºF.

Recommendation

We recommend that owners/operators of RHC helicopters be aware of the potential for fuel system vapor in high ambient temperatures. An intermittent or flickering auxiliary fuel pump warning light may be an early indication of vapor formation. If vapor formation is suspected, we recommend that you decrease altitude and/or discontinue operations until cooler conditions exist.

For Further Information Contact

Danny Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, FAA Los Angeles Certification Office, ANM-140L, 3960 Paramount Boulevard., Lakewood, CA 90712; phone: (562) 627-5247; fax: (562) 627-5210; e-mail:

danny.nguyen@faa.gov

For Related Service Information Contact

Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Driv e, Torrance, CA 90505, phone: (310) 539-0508;

fax: (310) 539-5198; e-mail: www.robinsonheli.com.