Following much speculation that had the rumour mill working overtime, Robinson Helicopter Company finally unveiled the R88, marking a significant milestone as it is the company’s first all-new helicopter design in nearly 15 years. This innovative rotorcraft represents a substantial advancement in helicopter technology, showcasing a blend of enhanced capabilities and increased size, which together enable it to undertake a broader spectrum of missions. The R88 is engineered meticulously to meet the evolving demands of the aviation market, particularly in the realm of utility helicopters, where versatility and cost-effectiveness are paramount.
One of the standout features of the R88 is its ability to accommodate a diverse range of operational requirements. Whether for agricultural applications, aerial photography, law enforcement, or other utility tasks, this helicopter is designed to perform efficiently across various environments and situations. Its larger frame allows for increased payload capacity, which means it can carry more equipment or personnel, making it an ideal choice for operators who require flexibility in their missions.
In keeping with Robinson Helicopter Company’s longstanding reputation, the R88 is built with a strong emphasis on reliability, affordability, and safety—principles that have guided the company since its inception. The design incorporates advanced safety features and robust engineering practices that are expected to provide pilots and operators with peace of mind during their flights. The reliability of the R88 is further enhanced by the use of high-quality materials and components that have been rigorously tested to withstand the rigours of various operational conditions.
The introduction of the R88 comes at a time when there is a growing demand for single-engine helicopters that are not only economical but also capable of delivering exceptional performance. The helicopter market has seen a shift towards more budget-friendly options that do not compromise on quality, and the R88 is poised to fill this niche effectively. Its competitive pricing combined with its advanced features makes it an attractive option for both private operators and commercial enterprises looking to expand their fleet without incurring excessive costs.
The R88 represents a significant leap forward for Robinson Helicopter Company, reflecting its commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of aviation. With its enhanced capabilities, commitment to safety, and affordability, the R88 is expected to set new standards in the single-engine utility helicopter segment, catering to a diverse array of missions and meeting the needs of a wide range of operators. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the R88 stands as a testament to Robinson's dedication to providing high-quality, versatile helicopter solutions that are accessible to all.
For more than 50 years, Robinson Helicopter Company has been at the forefront of the helicopter industry, introducing technology that enhances safety, such as their self-designed crash-resistant fuel cells, 4K cockpit cameras, autopilot systems, robust windshields, and cockpits compatible with night vision equipment. Robinson is dedicated to designing, manufacturing, and supporting the most reliable and efficient helicopters, both manned and unmanned, in the industry.
"With the unveiling of the R88, we expect to disrupt the single-engine helicopter market, offering superior performance and capabilities at a competitive price," said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “As the most vertically integrated manufacturer of helicopters in the world, we have a unique opportunity to provide solutions that no other manufacturer can – a highly capable and affordable helicopter with readily available parts and predictable maintenance. This is exactly what our 10,000+ existing customers have come to expect from Robinson.”
Robinson Helicopter Company has partnered with Safran Helicopter Engines to equip the R88 with the Arriel 2W engine. They are offering an exceptional package called the Arriel 2W Serenity package with every new helicopter purchase, marking a first in the commercial helicopter industry. With the purchase of a new R88, customers receive the Serenity package, which includes coverage for unscheduled removals for five years or 2,000 flight hours, whichever comes first. Additionally, it provides advanced health monitoring and digital services. This package ensures enhanced peace of mind regarding the maintenance and support of your R88. The Arriel engines have accumulated over 66 million flight hours and are trusted for a variety of demanding missions worldwide.
Key Features and Capabilities:
Size and Capacity: The R88 represents the most advanced and largest aircraft developed by Robinson Helicopter. It accommodates eight seats in the main cabin and two seats in the cockpit, with a payload capacity of up to 820kg when fully fueled. The cabin offers almost 8m³ volume.
Performance: The R88 boasts a range exceeding 350 nautical miles and an endurance of over 3.5 hours. It is anticipated to accommodate an internal payload of approximately 1,300 kg and will be equipped with a 1000-shaft horsepower single Safran Arriel 2W engine.
Highly Configurable Interior: The highly adaptable cabin includes a flat floor that supports various forward and club seating arrangements, efficient configurations for air medical and public safety missions, and numerous potential future seating options. A fold-down, truck-bed style rear door facilitates cargo loading and is designed to accommodate a HEMS stretcher.
Exterior Adaptability: The aircraft is offered with either standard skids or optional high skids, providing enhanced ground clearance and compatibility with a firefighting water tank. Optional equipment includes a 1400kg HEC-rated cargo hook, a utility basket, a wire strike protection kit, and pop-out floats.
Advanced Avionics: The R88 is equipped with a Garmin avionics suite, featuring expansive G500H TXi displays and GTN navigators with touchscreen interfaces. The G500H TXi is integrated with a crew alerting system. It includes a standard 4-axis autopilot, offering functionalities such as level mode, hover assist, limit cueing and low/high-speed protection. Standard data recording, along with a datalink and a health usage monitoring system (HUMS), streamlines both operation and maintenance.
Enhanced Safety: The R88 is equipped with dual hydraulic systems for pitch and roll, ensuring optimal performance of critical flight controls. Additional standard safety features comprise an inlet barrier filter and impact-resistant windshields, both certified to Part 29 transport helicopter standards. Enhanced safety is also achieved through new LED exterior lighting, which includes pulse, landing and taxi lights, tail rotor lighting, scene lighting, and entry lights.
Innovative Design: The R88 is equipped with dual cyclic controls, featuring removable controls on both sides. This configuration permits the pilot in command to occupy either the left or right seat, with a passenger seated opposite. The aircraft will receive type certification for optional single-pilot IFR operations. Its completely redesigned interior offers comfortable and functional seating, materials that are easy to maintain, and a versatile layout.
Affordability: The R88 is available at a starting price of USD 3.3 million for the standard configuration, which is highly equipped.
Robison is now accepting deposits on the R88 from Authorized Robinson Helicopter Dealers.
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