Rotorcraft
FAA Certifies Symmetrical Stabilizer for Robinson R44
The new empennage was first certified on the R66 last September
Robinson R44 helicopter
© Robinson Helicopter

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.