Powerplant For The Robinson R66 Gas-Turbine Helicopter

Russian airworthiness authority IAC-AR has certified the Rolls-Royce RR300 engine, the company announced Wednesday at the MAKS Air Show in Moscow. The approval opens up flight operations for the Robinson R66 helicopter, and bodes well for future growth for the aircraft in the region.

File Photo

The RR300 engine, which powers Robinson’s first gas-turbine aircraft, received flight certification from the FAA in October 2010 and is in service with the R66 globally. Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Vice President- Civil Helicopters stated: “We have been working very closely with the Robinson team to achieve this key milestone and it is recognition of the safety and validity of the Rolls-Royce RR300 design. This important new certification will increase opportunities for R66 sales and growth across Russia.”

The Robinson R66 Turbine features a two-bladed rotor system, an open interior cabin configuration with seating for five, air conditioning, increased reserve power and improved altitude performance up to 14,000 feet. Its cruise speed is approximately 120 knots.

In Russia, Rolls-Royce supplies engines and servicing for airlines, helicopters and private jets; it designs and provides marine equipment; and supplies industrial gas turbines and reciprocating engines for gas compression and power generation.

FMI: www.rolls-royce.com, www.robinsonheli.com