Robinson Turbine Helicopters for Sale

Robinson Turbine Helicopter Overview

By Gerrard Cowan - Editor, Aircraft Reviews

Roots in Piston Helicopters

Robinson was founded in 1973 by Frank Robinson, and, as of 2021 had sold more than 13,000 helicopters around the world. The company introduced its first product in 1979; the two-seat, piston-powered Robinson R22. This easily operated and maintained helicopter was relatively inexpensive, proving popular in flight schools and among private operators. 

There have been various different updates to the R22 over the years, such as the R22 Beta, which was introduced in 1985 and brought a higher-powered Lycoming O-320-B2C engine to the platform, along with a redesigned instrument panel and a number of other enhancements.

The R22 Beta II, meanwhile, was introduced in 1995, and brought more power again through a de-rated Lycoming O-360 engine, along with a range of other upgrades. 

Then, in 1992, the company introduced its four-seat Robinson R44, later known as the R44 Raven I. This aircraft shares the same design philosophy as the R22, according to Robinson, though it has a more powerful Lycoming IO-540 engine.

It was succeeded by the R44 Raven II in 2002, which now had a fuel-injected Lycoming IO-540 engine and 28-volt electrical system, enhancing the platform’s ability to perform in ‘high and hot conditions’. By 2003, R44 sales double those of the R22.

Turbine Helicopter Expansion

At about this time, the manufacturer began developing plans for a turbine-powered helicopter, and secured an agreement with Rolls-Royce for an RR300 engine, derived from the RR250. This was used as the basis of what became the Robinson R66 turbine helicopter, a five-seat rotorcraft that was certified in 2010.

The R66 has been a significant success story for Robinson over its decade in production, with more than 1,000 units – which have accumulated over 1.3 million flight hours – delivered to a wide range of customers. While the aircraft resembles the R44 piston model, it has a wider cabin, accommodating a pilot and four passengers.

The aircraft features a three-place rear bench and an externally-accessed baggage compartment. It has a maximum range of about 350nm. The aircraft has a two-bladed rotor system, energy-absorbing seats, crash-worthy bladder fuel tanks, and a range of other features. 

The manufacturer has continually updated and upgraded the R66 over the years. For example, the aircraft was upgraded to offer the Garmin G500H Avionics Display System and the Genesys Aerosystems HeliSAS autopilot.

Today, the R66 and the R44 are Robinson’s major sellers, and a recent addition to the production line is the R44 Cadet, aimed at the training market. 

More Information: 

Read the latest Robinson Turbine Helicopter Comparisons by Mike Chase

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