Our Helicopters

Our helicopters

Heli Alaska is a top aviation firm in Wasilla, Alaska. We offer breathtaking flight-seeing tours and charter services with our helicopters. We prioritize safety, performance, and maintenance, setting a high standard among Alaska helicopter firms.

The R44 Robinson helicopter is our flagship aircraft. Equipped with a fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540 engine, it produces 245 horsepower for takeoff and 205 horsepower continuously. It also has a maximum weight of 2500 lbs and an empty weight of 1505 lbs, including oil and standard avionics, making it strong and lightweight.

The R44 is known for its speed and range, reaching 109 kts and 300 nm. It also has a hover ceiling IGE of 8950 ft at max weight and 7500 ft at lighter weight, along with a climb rate of over 1000 fpm and a 14,000 ft max operating altitude. All these factors make it a popular choice for scenic tours and charters.

Heli Alaska schedules regular maintenance to keep the R44 operating at its best. Their maintenance program keeps the aircraft in top shape and the R44’s sleek design and sturdy airframe make maintenance easy.

Robinson R44 - HeliAlaska

Design

HeliAlaska - R44 Specsheet

Design is critical to aircraft performance, and the R44 Robinson helicopter is a prime example. Heli Alaska, a top aviation company in Wasilla, Alaska, showcases the R44 as one of their flagship aircraft, setting a standard among Alaska helicopter firms.

The R44 is designed for performance, with a fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540 engine delivering 245 horsepower for takeoff and 205 horsepower continuously. Robinson designed the R44 with a max weight of 2500 lbs and an empty weight of 1505 lbs, including oil and standard avionics, making it both powerful and lightweight.

Safety is a key aspect of the R44’s design. Advanced technology provides a 300 nm range, 109 kts cruise speed, and a hover ceiling IGE of 8950 ft at max weight and 7500 ft at lighter weight. The R44 also has a climb rate of over 1000 fpm and a 14,000 ft max operating altitude, making it safe and reliable for any flight-seeing tour or charter.

Regular maintenance is vital to the R44’s performance, and Heli Alaska is committed to providing it. Their maintenance schedule keeps the aircraft in excellent condition and the R44’s sleek design and sturdy airframe make maintenance simple.

In conclusion, the R44 Robinson helicopter and Heli Alaska embody excellence in Alaska aviation. They prioritize safety, performance, and maintenance, setting a standard among Alaska helicopter firms. Their dedication to providing the best flight-seeing tours and charter services make them a trusted and capable choice for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience.

R44 Helicopter Fuel Image
HeliAlaska - R44 Specsheet
R44 Helicopter Fuel Image

Performance

HeliAlaska - Lycoming O-540

Performance is crucial for Alaska helicopter firms. Heli Alaska, a leading aviation firm in Wasilla, Alaska, provides flight-seeing tours and charter services with a focus on performance.

Their flagship aircraft, the R44 Robinson helicopter, has a fuel-injected engine delivering 245 hp for takeoff and 205 hp continuously. Its 2500 lbs max gross weight and 1505 lbs empty weight strikes the perfect balance between weight and strength.

The R44 is efficient with a cruise speed of 109 kts and a range of 300 nm. Its hover ceiling IGE of 8950 ft and 7500 ft, combined with a climb rate of over 1000 fpm and max operating altitude of 14,000 ft, make it perfect for scenic tours and charters.

The R44 has a load capacity for 3 passengers and a pilot, and space for gear and supplies, making it suitable for sightseeing, aerial photography, and survey missions.

The R44 Robinson helicopter is a top choice for performance-focused Alaska helicopter firms. Its fuel-efficient engine, balanced airframe, impressive speed and range, and ample load capacity make it versatile and reliable for various aviation applications.

HeliAlaska R44 Helicopter Specs
HeliAlaska - Lycoming O-540
HeliAlaska R44 Helicopter Specs
Whiteout Glacier - Heli Alaska Inc

Saftey

Whiteout Glacier - Heli Alaska Inc

Heli Alaska, a leading Alaska helicopter company, prioritizes safety above all else. They equip their flagship aircraft, the R44 Robinson helicopter, with features to guarantee a safe flight for all passengers.

The R44’s fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540 engine provides a dependable power source and its lightweight yet sturdy airframe adds to its safety. Furthermore, the R44 boasts safety features like energy-absorbing landing gear, a crash-resistant fuel system, and easily accessible large doors for passengers and crew.

Heli Alaska maintains the highest safety standards by regularly performing maintenance and safety inspections on their R44s. The R44’s streamlined design and lightweight airframe simplify maintenance and inspections.

In conclusion, Heli Alaska’s focus on safety and the R44’s technical features make them a trustworthy and safe option for any Alaska flight-seeing tour or charter service.

History of Frank Robinson

Career

HeliAlaska - Frank Robinson Senior

Undeniably we are grateful to have a fleet of R44 helicopters, designed by the late Frank Robinson. A hovering helicopter picture sparked Robinson’s passion for aviation at the young age of nine. This fascination set the course for his life’s work. As such leading him to earn a BSME degree from the University of Washington, becoming a renowned helicopter designer.

Frank worked at various companies, unquestionably honing his skills in helicopter design and development. However, it was not until 1973 that his dream of creating a small, low-cost helicopter came to fruition. In 1979, researchers tested and analyzed the first R22, which then became the world’s top-selling civil helicopter.

Frank continued to innovate and develop new helicopter designs, specifically the R44. The four-seat R44 helicopter took its first flight in 1990 and received FAA certification in 1992. It quickly became a popular choice, with more than 5,000 R44 helicopters delivered worldwide by 2010.

 

Knik Glacier Landing - Heli Alaska
HeliAlaska - Frank Robinson Senior

Legacy

The aviation industry recognized Frank’s contributions with numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Daniel Guggenheim Medal in 2013. He was also a generous philanthropist, donating to education and aviation museums. After 80 years of dedicated work, Frank retired. The R44 remains a popular choice for flight training, tourism, and other aerial applications. Also the Robinson Helicopter Company continues to be a leader in the industry, dedicated to producing high-quality, reliable helicopters.

Frank’s innovative spirit and passion for aviation subsequently inspire new generations of helicopter designers and pilots. A visionary who revolutionized the helicopter industry, making the dream of flight accessible to more people than ever before. Moreover, he introduced new designs and technology to the industry, creating a more efficient and cost-effective way to fly. Additionally, his innovations paved the way for the use of helicopters in a variety of applications. Furthermore, he inspired other engineers and inventors to push the boundaries of what was possible with helicopters. As a result, the helicopter industry has seen rapid improvements in safety, performance, and affordability. All these contributions to the industry have made him a legendary figure in the world of aviation.

In memoriam of Frank Robinson

Frank Robinson

From the bottom of our hearts, we at Heli Alaska would like to express our deep gratitude to Frank for his contributions to the helicopter industry. His passion and dedication to the field have inspired countless people, including all of us at Heli Alaska.

The commitment to innovation shown by Frank has made it possible for people around the world to experience the freedom and versatility that comes with owning a helicopter. Your contributions have changed the lives of so many including ourselves.

We at Heli Alaska are proud to be affiliated with Robinson helicopters and to be a part of Franks legacy. His impact on the industry will never be forgotten.

Thank you, Frank, for your unwavering passion, your relentless drive, and your steadfast commitment to excellence. You are remembered as a pioneer.

With heartfelt gratitude, Heli Alaska, Inc.

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