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NOTE: The V$_{MINI}$, MAX IFR Approach Angle and G/A Mode Speed for a specific helicopter may vary with avionics/autopilot installation. Pilots are, therefore, cautioned to refer only to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual limitations for their specific helicopter. The maximum rate of descent for many autopilots is 1,000 FPM. 

## LEGEND 

In some helicopters with the autopilot engaged, the V$_{MINI}$ may increase to a speed greater than 70 KIAS, or in the “go around” mode requires a speed faster than 70 KIAS. 

a V$_{MINI}$ of 70 KIAS may have inadequate control margins to fly an approach that is designed with the maximum allowable angle/descent gradient or minimum allowable deceleration distance from the missed approach point (MAP) to the heliport. The “Copter” PinS final approach segment is limited to 70 KIAS since turn containment and the deceleration distance from the MAP to the heliport may not be adequate at faster speeds. For some helicopters, engaging the autopilot may increase the V$_{MINI}$ to a speed greater than 70 KIAS, or in the “go around” (G/A) mode, require a speed faster than 70 KIAS. [Figure 7-2] It may be possible for these helicopters to be flown manually on the approach or on the missed approach in a mode other than the G/A mode. 

Since slower IFR approach speeds enable the helicopter to fly steeper approaches and reduces the distance from the heliport that is required to decelerate the helicopter, you may want to operate your helicopter at speeds slower than its established V$_{MINI}$. The provision to apply for a 

determination of equivalent safety for instrument flight below V$_{MINI}$ and the minimum helicopter requirements are specified in Advisory Circulars (AC) 27-1, Certification of Normal Category Rotorcraft and AC 29-2, Certification of Transport Category Rotorcraft. Application guidance is available from the Rotorcraft Directorate Standards Staff, ASW-110, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas, 76137­ 4298, (817) 222-5111. 

Performance data may not be available in the HFM for speeds other than the best rate of climb speed. To meet missed approach climb gradients, pilots may use observed performance for similar weight, altitude, temperature, and speed conditions to determine equivalent performance. When missed approaches utilizing a climbing turn are flown with an autopilot, set the heading bug on the missed approach heading, and then at the MAP, engage the indicated airspeed mode, followed immediately by applying climb power and selecting the heading mode. This is important since the autopilot roll rate and maximum 

