Robinson Helicopter Company Introduces the R88
Robinson Helicopter Company has introduced the R88, its first completely new helicopter design in nearly 15 years. This 10-seat, single-engine utility helicopter is engineered to address the increasing need for flexible, efficient, and cost-effective aerial operations. With its expanded capacity and modernized features, the R88 is positioned to serve a wide range of missions—from passenger transport and cargo delivery to emergency response—marking a significant evolution in Robinson’s lineup.
Significantly larger and more powerful that other helicopters in its lineup, the Robinson R88 will be capable of demanding tasks such as wild land firefighting and performing medical evacuation missions.
Key Features of the R88
Capacity and Performance: The R88 can accommodate up to 10 occupants (two pilots and eight passengers) and offers a payload capacity of up to 1,800 pounds with full fuel. It boasts a range of over 350 nautical miles and a flight endurance of more than 3.5 hours.
Powerplant: Powered by a 1,000-horsepower Safran Arriel 2W engine, the R88 delivers robust performance suitable for various missions.
Versatile Cabin Design: The helicopter features a highly configurable flat-floor cabin, allowing for multiple seating arrangements and mission-specific configurations, including passenger transport, medical evacuations, public safety, and cargo operations.
Advanced Avionics: Equipped with the Garmin G500H TXi avionics suite, the R88 offers enhanced situational awareness and operational efficiency.
Safety and Maintenance: Standard safety features include an inlet barrier filter and impact-resistant windshields certified to Part 29 transport helicopter requirements. The R88 is also expected to be type-certified for optional single-pilot IFR operations.
Robinson R88 cockpit can accommodate one or two pilots.
R88 flexible interior layout can be confirgured to carry up to 9 passengers or a significant amount of cargo with mid and rear seats removed.
Dual cyclic controls are featured in the R88.