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Apr 27, 2023 - Helicopter evaluation requirements - Hire the professionals

Considering buying a helicopter? it's important to have the helicopter thoroughly inspected and evaluated by our professional evaluators before making a final decision. Helicopters are complex machines with many components that must be in good working order for safe operation. In order to make an informed decision regarding whether to purchase the aircraft, you are advised to conduct a thorough evaluation to uncover any potential issues that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye. The most common parts of a helicopter that fail most often can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the make and model of the helicopter, the age and maintenance history of the aircraft, and the operating conditions under which it is used. However, some parts that tend to experience higher rates of failure in helicopters include the engine, transmission, rotor blades, and the hydraulic and electrical systems. As every evaluation is customized to the specific requirements of the client, here are some of the points that might be included in your evaluation; however, the final requirements and scope of your evaluation will be determined together.

Helicopter engine is a critical component, and it is also one of the most common parts to experience problems or fail altogether. Problems with the engine can range from minor issues such as misfiring or reduced power output, to major problems such as complete engine failure. There may be some issues as well as wear and tear that can be expected and are not all that costly to repair or replace, however, other issues may require a complete engine rebuild or replacement. As with the transmission (which transfers power from the engine to the rotors), we check for power reduction, vibration, and other common problems that may affect the performance and safety of the helicopter. In normal helicopter operations, the rotor blades undergo a great deal of stress and wear. Rotorlink technicians are trained to check for cracking, chipping, and other types of damage that could result in reduced performance and potentially dangerous situations over time. A complete check list will also include your hydraulic systems, landing gear, flight controls, and power steering. Problems with the hydraulic system can cause these components to malfunction or fail, which can be extremely dangerous in flight. Last but not least, our helicopter technicians will inspect your electrical system, lighting, avionics, and other critical electronic systems. 

Before you make a decision to buy or sell a helicopter, request an evaluation from Rotorlink. We will:

1. Provide information on similarly-equipped aircraft on the market

2.Thoroughly inspect the entire structure, drive train and dynamic components

3. Review all technical records

4. Ensure compliance with all mandatory bulletins

5. Provide an unbiased evaluation report outlining the condition of the aircraft, including any deficiencies found and the estimated cost to repair them

Regular maintenance and inspection logs can help to identify and resolve potential problems with these and other components before they lead to failure or other safety concerns. Our first step is to request the helicopter service log and flight log in order to identify repeat technical malfunctions as well as potential issues arising from usage specific to the locations to which the helicopter frequently flew. One of the key reasons to hire Rotorlink to inspect and evaluate a helicopter is that our team has the expertise and experience needed to identify any issues that may be present. This includes everything from checking the structural integrity of the aircraft to examining the engine and other critical components for signs of wear or damage. Rotorlink’s professional evaluators can also look for any modifications or repairs that may have been made to the helicopter, and determine whether these were done to the appropriate standards.

Helicopter evaluation requires a detailed and systematic approach. The evaluation will typically involve a thorough inspection of the aircraft's structure, including the fuselage, rotor blades, and tail boom. The engine, transmission, and other critical components will also be carefully examined for signs of wear or damage. In addition, the helicopter's avionics systems, including the navigation and communication equipment, will be evaluated to ensure they are functioning properly.

You can reduce the likelihood of unexpected expensive repairs by hiring Rotorlink to inspect and evaluate a helicopter before you decide to purchase it. Contact us today to discuss, it is free.