Fri, Feb 12, 2010
Robinson Helicopter Company is Now Accepting Orders for the R66
Turbine Helicopter
Over the years leading up to the most recent revelations
concerning Frank Robinson's avidly awaited R66 turbine helicopter,
details were sparse and, at best, 'non-specific.'
Coy as ever, Frank refused to be pinned down on details --
knowing full well that the process of researching, developing and
testing a new helicopter, much less their first turbine, was likely
to be a 'fluid' process. However; we now know the salient details
that folks have been waiting for... how much and what will it
REALLY do... and the answers are damned impressive. The base price
with standard equipment is US $770K and the required non-refundable
deposit is US $75,000 -- well within the "less the $1 Million"
promise Frank made several years back. The 120 kt helo will be able
to haul a hefty 927 pounds with FULL fuel, and boast HIGE/HOGE
specs in excess of 10K.
Robinson's turbine helicopter, the 5-place R66, will be on
display at HeliExpo in Houston, Texas, February 21, 22, and 23,
2010 -- and Robinson is now officially accepting orders. Serial
numbers will not be assigned and delivery dates will not be
confirmed until after FAA certification is complete.
The R66 incorporates many of the design features of its
reputable predecessor, the R44, including a two-bladed rotor
system, T -bar cyclic and an open interior cabin configuration. The
most notable differences are its increased reserve power, increased
altitude performance, fifth seat and large baggage compartment.
Popular upgrades including HID landing lights, leather seats, and a
stereo audio control panel are standard in the R66.
Robinson R66 Specs and Performance
R66 Specifications Are Based On Preliminary Test Data And
Are Subject To Change
|
R66 Weights |
Gross Weight |
2,700 Ibs |
Empty Weight (incl oil & avionics) |
1,280 Ibs |
Max Fuel (73.6 gal) |
493 Ibs |
Passengers & Baggage (with max fuel) |
927 Ibs |
|
R66 Performance |
Cruise Speed |
Approx. 120kts |
Max Range (no reserve) - |
Approx. 325 nm |
Hover Ceiling IGE |
over 10,000 ft |
Hover Ceiling OGE |
over 10,000 ft |
Rate of Climb |
over 1,000 fpm |
Max Operating Altitude |
14,000 ft |
All Robinson aircraft are sold through the company's world-wide
dealer network. Robinson is currently accepting R66 dealer
applications. With almost 400 Robinson dealers and service centers
already established, Robinson anticipates having extensive R66
support in place by the end of 2010.
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