FAA proposes special certification conditions for Skyryse fly-by-wire R66

The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed special certification conditions covering Skyryse's SkyOS flight-control system, which is being installed in the Robinson R66 helicopter. The system, part of the Skyryse One conversion, replaces the R66's conventional cyclic and pedal controls with a single control stick, touchscreens and software-managed flight functions.

The proposal addresses a specific safety concern: how pilots recognize when the helicopter is nearing the limits of its control authority. In a conventionally rigged R66, pilots can gauge remaining control margin by feel, as the cyclic and pedals approach their physical stops. Because SkyOS removes that direct mechanical link between cockpit inputs and the main and tail rotors, the FAA said a substitute means of alerting pilots is needed.

Under the proposed condition, SkyOS would have to give pilots an indication whenever primary flight controls approach their available authority limits. The agency said any such alert should strike a balance between being a nuisance and being genuinely necessary.

Skyryse applied for a supplemental type certificate covering the R66 installation in April 2023. According to the company, SkyOS is meant to simplify or automate tasks such as takeoff, landing and stabilization. Skyryse said in February that the modified aircraft had entered for-credit flight testing with the FAA, a step in the certification process.

The proposed special conditions would form part of the certification basis for the modified R66, applying specifically to risks introduced by its fly-by-wire design. The FAA is taking public comment on the proposal through October 13.