Robinson's R44 Cadet is a versatile two-place helicopter ideally suited for flight schools and operators that want the economy of a small helicopter but desire the comfort, power, and performance of a larger helicopter. The Cadet retains the same basic airframe, rotor system, and Lycoming O-540-F1B5 engine as the proven R44 Raven I except the rear seats have been removed and the aft compartment reconfigured for cargo.
Maximum gross weight is 2200 lb. Engine power is derated to 210 hp takeoff/185 hp continuous. The lower weight and derated power provide increased performance margins at high altitudes and lengthen the time between overhaul (TBO) to 2400 hours. With a newly designed muffler, the Cadet's flyover noise is more than three decibles lower than the original R44 Raven I. A variety of equipment including air conditioning, autopilot, avionic packages for VFR and IFR training are available.