Maintenance Training The Robinson Way

RHC lists a variety of nearby accommodations on its web site; the Ramada Torrance has a special rate for RHC attendees that includes a (carbo-rich) breakfast. There are a wide variety of restaurants within walking distance.

The Torrance airport is located 11 miles south of Los Angeles International (LAX).

Eric Norman, who came to the civil helo world from the U.S. Army, told me that he used to hate Robinson helicopters when he first started working on them.

“Everything was small and some things were hard to get to,” he said. “Now I love them because once you know one you know them all.”

Norman attended the RHC class because his employer — Bristow Academy — was increasing the size of its Robinson fleet.

RHC has produced more than 10,000 helicopters since that first R-22 was approved on March 16, 1979. Production numbers were quoted at nine per week in November 2012. There are more than 300 back orders for the R-66. Two-thirds of RHC helicopters are shipped overseas.

For less than $1,000 for lodging, meals, and tuition, the RHC education is a bargain. Not only do attendees learn “The Robinson Way,” they graduate with the assurance that Robinson-proficient technicians are needed throughout the world.

Steven Ells has an A&P with IA. Based on the California coast, he can be reached at www.EllsAviation.com.