Robinson R44 Raven I Generation 2 Professional Series

When parked on the ramp, how do Jet Shades compare to foil guards?

Jet Shades are designed for use during flight and can also stay in while parked on the ramp to protect the aircraft interior from excessive heat damage caused by harmful UV rays. While foil guards can be helpful, they are time-consuming and cumbersome and do not offer the benefit of blocking up to 94% infrared heat (Premium Version) and 99.9% UVA/UVB, the primary cause of cracked and faded interiors. Jet Shades keep the aircraft cooler than foil guards when parked on the ramp. 

What kind of UV radiation protection do Jet Shades offer?

• UV-A is 320 nm to 380 nm - transmits through the atmosphere.
• UV-B is 290 nm to 320 nm - partially absorbed by the atmosphere (ozone layer).
• UV-C is 100 nm to 290 nm - absorbed by the atmosphere (ozone layer).

We test and report according to NFRC standards, these reference ISO9050:2003 as the method for measuring UV transmittance between 300 nm and 380 nm.

The UV transmittance of glazing is the fraction of the incident solar radiation transmitted by the glazing in the 300 nm to 380 nm range (UV-B range from 300 nm to 315 nm and UV-A range from 315 nm to 380 nm.)

Using the NFRC method, Jet Shades are 99% or greater, on average, in UV rejection.

Where can I find warranty information for my Jet Shades?

All Jet Shades come with a two-year warranty. A copy of our warranty is shipped with your Jet Shades, or you can view the warranty here.

I have factory-tinted cabin and skylight windows in my aircraft. Do I still need Jet Shades?

The short answer is Yes! Here's why: the factory-installed limo tint package blocks mostly light - not heat. When you add our Jet Shades premium, 76% of the heat BTU’s coming in from the tinted windows will be blocked, making for cooler, more comfortable trips. And, passengers can still enjoy the amazing views with the added peace of mind because Jet Shades also block 99.9% of harmful UV radiation — a must when traveling with light-sensitive passengers, children or pets.

Is there an STC (Supplementary Type Certificate) needed to fit Jet Shades into my aircraft windows?

No, an STC is not needed as placing Jet Shades in your aircraft windows is not modifying the aircraft in any way. There are no adhesives used, no suction cups, no tools are needed, and nothing attaches to the aircraft windows. Jet Shades can be placed/removed in your aircraft windows for each flight as well as easily installed/removed by the pilots during flight.

Will Jet Shades damage the aircraft windows?

No.  It takes 205℉  to start damaging acrylic windows and much higher for glass windows.  Jet Shades, when installed correctly, significantly block UV/UVB and infrared rays and, unlike foil guards, do not generate windshield heat near this threshold. Jet Shades create a cooler, ambient interior temperature that preserves windows, window trim, and interior finishes. 

Can I use generic film on my aircraft windows? I’ve seen mentions of ‘aviation films.’

Only if you want to violate the FAA regulations and have your aircraft grounded on a ramp check or fail a pre-buy inspection. There is no ‘Aviation film’ that is approved for aircraft use as this would require an STC. Without an STC it is a violation to make modifications to an aircraft.  Films block emergency window viewing for safe egress at night which is a violation. Films cannot be ‘carried on and carried off ‘ each flight like a portable electronic device and are not loose equipment.  Not to mention the internal stress films put on aircraft windows as they shrink and expand.  There have been several documented window blowouts and very expensive repairs due to films.  To be very clear – films are not FAA-approved unless there is an STC to do so in your aircraft. 

I have Rosen Visors. Will Jet Shades interfere with these?

No.  The Jet Shades will not interfere with the Rosen Visor system.  You can still use the Rosen Visors with your Jet Shades installed. 

Are Jet Shades the same window tinting film used in automotive car windows?

No. Jet Shades do not use automotive tinting film. The film you see in cars will blister, wrinkle, and separate over time due to temperature changes and humidity when attached to surfaces other than glass. The tinting material used in automobiles absorbs a significant amount of heat which could potentially damage aircraft windows. Additionally, Jet Shades has a proprietary, engineered process for applying and curing its unique optical quality film that caters specifically to the aircraft.  Note – Films should never be placed directly on aircraft cockpit windows – especially pressurized cabins. This can cause damage to the aircraft windows including cracking or blowouts of the cockpit windows.

Can I roll up my Jet Shades?

Jet Shades are flexible and can be rolled to about a 12” diameter circle without creasing.  Going smaller than that can cause damage to the Jet Shades. 

Will prolonged exposure to heat damage my Jet Shade?

Jet Shades are tested to withstand extreme heat up to 200℉  without bubbling, blistering, or delaminating.  

Will Condensation form on the Jet Shades?

In some conditions (usually at flight levels for longer periods of time) you may see condensation or frost develop on the Jet Shade.  This is perfectly normal and will not damage the Jet Shade.  If condensation or frost does appear on the Shade, we recommend you remove the panel from the window or windshield and set it aside.  The condensation or frost should quickly dissipate.

DO NOT attempt to remove your Jet Shades in flight unless the autopilot is verified as on and functioning or a qualified crewmember has control of the aircraft. 

How long will my Jet Shades last?

Both original Jet Shades, Generation Two, and Ultra-Thins Jet Shades were designed using technology estimated to provide 5 years of service when used and maintained following our instructions. Jet Shades come with a two-year warranty.

Generation Two and Ultra-Thins Jet Shades: While Jet Shades are flexible and will bend without breaking or shattering, they can still be creased if folded or rolled up. Therefore, Jet Shades should not be folded or rolled up into a circle smaller than 12” in diameter.

Original Jet Shades: While the Jet Shades are somewhat flexible and will bend without breaking or shattering, they can still be damaged from overbending. Jet Shades should not be flexed more than necessary to install and fit your aircraft's windows. Flexing or bending past 30 degrees, not removing them in heat conditions, and exposure to high humidity, all reduce the life of the product. We recommend you follow the instructions sheet provided for conditions requiring removal as well as storage to prolong the life of your Jet Shades.

Can Jet Shades crack or shatter?

No. Jet Shades are flexible enough that they will only crease and wrinkle.  They will not shatter or break.