Introducing the R22-GT “Glass Trainer”.

Specialized Helicopters, LLC, has teamed up with ASAP Avionics, ltd., and Sagem Avionics to provide the first FAA-approved glass cockpit for the Robinson R22 Helicopter. Like the recently FAA-approved “R44 Grand” that seamlessly integrates all-glass IFR instruments into an R44, the R22-GT incorporates the advanced solid-state electronics found in today’s high-end glass cockpits, including two large 8.4” screens, moving map, and a full complement of sophisticated system monitoring indicators.

The R22-GT is a complete IFR/VFR training solution specifically tailored to the R22 with advanced engine warning indications built into the system itself. Moreover, the R22-GT system weighs 10 lbs less than the equipment placed in the original R22 IFR trainer produced by Robinson Helicopter Company. Additional improvements have been made by placing the majority of the equipment weight under the co-pilot seat, giving the R22-GT an improved weight and balance configuration and an increase in the useful load of the aircraft. The real value of the R22-GT is its cost -- for both flight schools and the average IFR student pilot.

“The idea behind the R22-GT is to offer a helicopter IFR training solution that is less

costly than the R44,” says Chris Gularte, owner of Specialized Helicopters, LLC, the exclusive sales and service provider for the R22-GT. “With the R22-GT,” he continues, “We have introduced the first cost-effective way for flight schools to offer their IFR students a way to train like they fly. Sagem’s  glass retrofits are found in the major makes of helicopters to include Sikorsky, Eurocopter, Bell, MD Helicopters and Augusta and are used in demanding environments such as EMS, fire fighting and law enforcement. Any pilot actually flying a helicopter in the instrument environment today would most likely be doing it with glass. So an R22-GT equipped trainer is the perfect training platform for flight schools.”

Gularte knows of which he speaks. As a long-time flight instructor and a well-known provider of pilot training in California’s Central Coast region, Gularte focuses his training regimen on steadily advancing his student’s ability to train in a more efficient manner through enhanced techniques and technologies. "Our training programs are turning out flight instructors that not only have the skill set required in today's environment but also a firm grasp of the techniques involved in maintaining a high level of safety and proficiency throughout their career," notes Gularte.

The decision to team up with ASAP Avionics and Sagem Avionics to develop an all-glass IFR

system for the R22 was prompted by the increasing demand of students looking for an affordable way to add on an IFR qualification – particularly, advanced students coming from EMS and off-shore industries who need an instrument ticket for their jobs and are already familiar with a glass cockpit because of the type aircraft they fly.

Until now, it has not been feasible to use an R22 as an instrument trainer. With normal sized pilots, the original IFR-equipped R22 has a weight and balance problem, so the R44 became the de facto instrument trainer. Initially, this was an OK solution, since many students also needed R44 flight-time in order to get a job as tour pilots or as flight instructors in that aircraft.

For many students seeking an IFR qualification, though, training in an IFR equipped R44 is out of reach. Not only does the IFR R44 cost an additional $35,000 to purchase, it is also 40% more expensive to rent for each hour of flight training. By comparison, the cost for the R22-GT is $45,000, plus an installation cost of approximately $4,950. This means that an R22-GT IFR conversion can be completely paid for after the standard 2200 overhaul time of an R22, assuming an additional $30/hour rental rate. And the average student will save at least $10,000 over the course of his or her IFR training when compared to training in the R44.

Specialized Helicopters, LLC is an aviation service and technology company committed to developing and marketing innovative products that enhance the value and improve the safety of the Robinson helicopter product line. As a Robinson-authorized, R22 and R44 service center, Specialized Helicopters performs field overhauls and standard maintenance as well as comprehensive training for new and experienced pilots. With a team of experienced, well-trained mechanics and instructors, Specialized Helicopters takes pride in its ability to consistently produce high standards training, products and equipment.

With the introduction of the R22-GT, Specialized Helicopters takes a significant step towards its goal to create a safer and more efficient training environment -- one that will take a student to the next generation of aircraft without requiring upgrade training. Gularte says it best: “ . . . in an occupation where thoughtful training not only saves money, but can save your life, we here at Specialized Helicopters are focused on both sides of the equation.”

Standard features of the R22-GT include:

Artificial Horizon, HSI, Terrain Obstruction Proximity System, or terrain awareness along with a host of other avionics and engine monitoring indicators such as fuel flow (time & range).

The system has an easy software upgradeable system to include all the latest IFR flight and safety features, including, exceedence latching, WAAS, TIS, TCAD, EDM, ADF, DME, and NVG solutions.

New all-glass system is less prone to maintenance issues because solid state systems are not affected by the vibration of the aircraft the way that electro-mechanical instruments are.