Robinson Helicopter Company R44, R44 II, and R66 Separated Push-Pull Tube

On March 23, 2026, a Robinson Helicopter R44 rotorcraft (N478AT) impacted the roof of a warehouse facility in Boynton Beach, Florida. During the NTSB’s on-site examination of the main rotor flight controls, the upper right push-pull tube was found separated from the lower rod end (part number D173-2), which remained attached to the upper hydraulic servo piston shaft at the clevis (part number D200-1). Reference NTSB preliminary report ANC26FA021 for more information.

The FAA’s airworthiness concern is whether loose hardware near the hydraulic servo-to-swashplate push-pull tube interface is being found on R44, R44 II, and R66 model helicopters. The FAA is interested in receiving information from the aviation community about abnormal damage around the hydraulic servo-to-swashplate push-pull tube connection for these helicopters.

The FAA recommends operators perform Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB-119 and R66 Service Bulletin SB-45 dated May 11, 2026 or later revisions. If completed, please provide the information requested in Step 12 of the bulletin to the FAA.

A response is requested within 30 days.

Point of Contact: [email protected]