The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified Robinson Helicopter’s Slimline Auxiliary Fuel Tank for its R66 Turbine helicopter. The tank holds 23.2 US gallons (88 liters), roughly half the fuel of the company’s larger auxiliary fuel tank, adds approximately one hour to helicopter endurance, and extends its range by as much as 100 nautical miles (115 statute miles). It mounts on a fiberglass tray that installs in the aircraft’s baggage compartment, occupies one-third of the space, and leaves room for up to 200 pounds of baggage. Both tank and tray can be removed when not in use.
The tank weighs 29 lb. when empty and 189 lb. when full of fuel. It includes a crash-resistant fuel bladder that fits in an aluminum and fiberglass enclosure with an internal fuel pump that transfers fuel to the helicopter’s main tank at approximately 40 gallons per hour. Controls are conveniently located in the upper instrument console and feature an on/off switch, a no flow annunciator light, and a fuel quantity button.
The Slimline Auxiliary Fuel Tank is available on all R66 helicopters ordered now through Dec. 31 at a specially reduced price of US$14,500 (half off MSRP).
