Robinson Helicopter Company, best known for its two-person R22 light helicopter, just announced its largest model ever, the R88, at the helicopter industry annual trade show VERTICON. It’s the first all-new aircraft the California aviation firm has announced since it certified its R66 16 years ago. Robinson made a name for itself with the breakthrough two-seat R22, first certified in 1979, as being a safe, reliable, and affordable personal helicopter. It has since followed with the larger R44 (recently flown in an electric version) and R66 models. The R88 is designed for “quick reconfiguration, supporting various mission needs,” said CEO David Smith during the launch at VERTICON, referring to its SUV-like design for enhanced cargo carrying capacity. It will have Robinson’s signature two-bladed tail rotor and two-bladed main rotor in their most evolved forms, said Smith, adding the R88 will be the most affordable helicopter in its class. The $3.3 million single-engine..
