Robinson Helicopter Company plans to launch the R44 Cadet, a two-man R44, in the first quarter of 2016. Well suited for a wide variety of utility applications, Robinson has developed Cadet with the training market in mind.
The Cadet retains the same basic cell, rotor system and Lycoming O-540-F1B5 engine as the R44 Raven I. However, the rear seats have been removed and the rear compartment has been reconfigured for cargo.
The maximum gross weight is 2200 lbs (200 lbs. Less than the Raven I). Engine power is decommissioned at 210 HP takeoff / 185 HP continues (against 225/205 HP in the Raven I). The low weight and the decommissioned power make it possible to increase the performance margins at high altitude. In addition, with a newly designed silencer, the Cadet flyover noise signature is more than three decibels lower than the R44 Raven I.
A variety of optional equipment will be available including air conditioning, autopilot, and avionics packages optimized for VFR or IFR training.
FAA certification is well underway with flight tests expected before the end of the year. The base price for the Cadet will be lower than that of the R44 Raven I and will be announced before the Heli-Expo 2016.