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Robinson Helicopter Company was founded in 1973 by Frank Robinson.
Robinson introduced its first helicopter, the 2-place piston powered R22, in 1979. The company states that R22’s simple design, easy maintenance, and low acquisition cost made it popular among private owners and flight schools. As costs became less of a barrier, more people learned to fly and the demand for small, affordable helicopters increased. In 1992, Robinson introduced the 4-place R44, which followed the same design philosophy as the R22 and incorporated Lycoming’s larger, more powerful O-540 engine. The R44 was later designated the R44 Raven I.
Ten years later, the R44 Raven II was released, which continued the design of the original R44 but equipped it with Lycoming’s IO-540 fuel-injected engine and 28-volt electrical system. Designed by Lycoming, in cooperation with Robinson, the IO-540 enhanced the R44’s ability to perform at high altitudes and in hot temperatures. The Raven II appealed to a broader market and by 2003 R44 sales had doubled R22 sales.
During that same time period, Robinson began development of a turbine-powered helicopter, and in 2005 partnered with Rolls Royce to develop the RR300 turbine engine, a derivative of the RR250 series. With the engine in place, the 5-place turbine helicopter, R66 Turbine, was developed. In 2010, the R66 was FAA certified to the current amendment of the federal regulations, including the latest crashworthiness standards.
In 2021, the company’s top sellers are its R44 and R66 helicopters, respectively. Both models are offered in a variety of configurations including float, news, and police versions. The most recent addition to Robinson’s line is the R44 Cadet, a two-place R44 specifically designed for the training market.
Robinson's latest offerings in research and development are glass avionics and an autopilot designed specifically for helicopters.
Robinson emphasizes safety and conducts monthly safety courses for helicopter flight instructors and maintenance courses for technicians. Robinson is a member of the International Helicopter Safety Team.
The company manufactures, assembles, inspects, and flight tests all of its helicopters at its Torrance, California factory. To ensure quality and maximize efficiency, Robinson manufactures a large percentage of parts in house and employs a highly skilled workforce. In addition to new production, Robinson offers a factory overhaul program for older aircraft. A worldwide network of more than 400 Service Centers and Dealers provides service and support.
As of April 2021, Robinson Helicopter Company has delivered over 13,000 helicopters worldwide.
Robinson cockpit camera clips
