H-34 Choctaw/Limits

SECTION 4. LIMITS

1 General

1.1 Purpose

This chapter identifies the operating limitations that should be observed by the flight crew during operation of this helicopter.

1.2 Minimum Crew

The minimum crew required to operate this helicopter is one pilot and one copilot.

2 System Limits

2.1 Instrument Markings

All instrument markings should be observed while flying this helicopter.

• Lower Red Radial - The red radial having the lowest numerical value on an instrument indicates that a dangerous condition would exist if the pointer should drop to or below that value during flight.
• Yellow Arc or Radial - A yellow arc or radial indicates that danger may exist under certain specified conditions. Operation in these regions may only be carried out in accordance with the limitations prescribed in this manual.
• Green Arc - A green arc indicates the region for continuous inflight operation.
• Upper Red Radial - The red radial having the highest numerical value on an instrument indicates that a dangerous condition would exist if the pointer should reach this value and that operation above this point is prohibited.

2.2 Rotor Limits

The following limitations apply to apparent rotor RPM (the RPM shown on the outer scale):

• Minimum RPM in autorotation: 1920 RPM
• Maximum RPM: 2915 RPM

The following inspections must be performed in the event of rotor overspeeds:

• 2915 to 3050 RPM - A visual inspection of the blades, hubs and control linkage, and tail rotor assembly should be performed.
• 3050 to 3500 RPM - A major overhaul of the main rotor hub should be performed. A visual inspection of all other components should be performed.
• Above 3500 RPM - The main rotors, tail rotors, and main rotor hub should be removed and scrapped and new components installed.

2.3 Engine Operating Limitations

2.3.1 RPM =

Engine overspeeds up to 2900 RPM are allowable. Engine overspeeds from 2900 to 3000 RPM require an inspection of the engine and fan assembly. Overspeeds beyond 3000 rpm require removal and overhaul of the engine.

2.3.2 Manifold Pressure

Max Continuous - 47.5" Absolute Maximum - 56.5"

3 Loading Limits

3.1 Center-of-Gravity Limitations

See Fig. 6-1 for center-of-gravity limitations with respect to gross weight.

3.2 Maximum Gross Weight

The maximum gross weight is 14,000 pounds. Operations above 13,300 pounds should be kept to a minimum consistent with operational requirements to prevent excess wear on components.

3.3 Cargo Hook Limitations

Maximum weight for external cargo on the hook is 6,000 pounds. The maximum capacity of the rescue hoist is 600 pounds.

4 AIRSPEED LIMITATIONS

The maximum recommended indicated airspeeds are as follows:

• Forward flight: 150 knots
• Sideward flight: 35 knots
• Rearward flight: 20 knots

5 MANEUVERING LIMITS

The following maneuvers are not permitted:

1. Acrobatics.
2. Angles of bank exceeding 45 degrees.
3. Hovering turns exceeding a rate of 360 degrees in 15 seconds.