2 March 2007
It now appears certain that the rumoured Robinson R66 five-seat turbine will come into being.
Frank Robinson, the company’s owner, revealed the news to AINtv. The R66 will be powered by a new Rolls-Royce engine, the Model 300. He expects the R66 to enter service in around three years’ time, although he said nothing about the specifications, configuration or price of the new machine (although he did suggest it would be less than $1m, but more than $400,000).
Other sources suggest, though, that the aircraft will look like the R44, and will be intended as a replacement for the Bell JetRanger. The same sources suggest a two-blade rotor, which would have to be mounted higher to combat weight and balance issues. It is likely to have a dedicated baggage compartment.
Robinson is the world’s leading general aviation helicopter manufacturer, and enjoyed another record year last year. Its models are known for their simplicity and low price.
