On September 30, Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) received FAA certification for its Night Vision Goggles (NVG) compatible configuration on its R66 Police helicopter. For NVG compatibility, the helicopter’s interior and exterior lighting along with the aircraft’s instruments and avionics were evaluated to certify the helicopter for operation day or night with or without the use of NVGs.
The Florida Polk County Sheriff Office’s (PCSO) second R66 Police helicopter (S/N 1158) is fully NVG compatible and served as the test bed for certification. The aircraft was delivered to the PCSO on September 30. A third NVG-compatible R66 Police helicopter is slotted for delivery to the PCSO in January 2023.
The PCSO air support flies on average 1,100 hours each year. Centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, the PSCO provides air support for every law enforcement agency in its 2,000 square mile county as well as surrounding counties. Much of the terrain consists of lakes and flatlands with little to no illumination at night, making NVGs essential.
Biden FAA leader nominee withdraws after “an onslaught of unfounded Republican attacks”
March 27, 2023
American President Joe Biden’s nominee for the role of leader of the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Phillip Washington, has withdrawn his name owing to “an onslaught of unfounded Republican attacks which have focused on his service and experience, CNN reported. Though his announcement for the role was made last year, since then the
