Rotor Accessories introduces sunshades for R44 helicopter

The product is inspired by the company’s own first-hand knowledge of owning and operating the R44. Rotor Accessories’ new tear resistant, mylar sunshades block 97 per cent of radiant heat and are custom designed to fit in both bubble and standard R44 windows.

The seven-shade set blocks the sun’s heat-generating rays, protecting both the helicopter’s avionics and the interior. When not in use, the set packs in a small tent-style bag that is included with purchase. This bag can be stowed under any of the R44 seats when in flight.

Chris Fetner, Chief Product Officer of Rotor Accessories, said: “We’re always our first customer when it comes to our products. If it’s something we’d like to see on the market that doesn’t exist, we get to work on understanding and quantifying why. If we think others will benefit, that’s when we bring it to market.”

The product was field tested in both Southern California and Texas, two extreme climates. The shades are hand-made in Los Angeles and feature suction cups on the side window shades, while the front shades fit without other assistance.

“As a pilot I was getting really tired of getting into my aircraft after a short break on the ground and having it be unbearably hot, or my iPad overheating. I also didn’t want to have to carry my heavy, bulky full cover. These shades are the perfect compromise and are always with me since we got the final prototype finished,” said Fetner, who is also a commercial helicopter pilot himself.