Founder Of Namesake Helicopter Company Honored For Impact

Vertical Aviation International applauded the induction of the late Frank Robinson into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. Robinson, who founded the helicopter company that bears his name, passed away in 2022 at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of engineering excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurship that influences the vertical flight community and will for many years.

The 61st Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony will be held on September 19 in Wichita, Kansas.

Robinson had a vision to create practical, accessible, and dependable rotorcraft which led to the development of the R22, R44, and R66 helicopter models. The company he founded, Robinson Helicopter Company, has gone on to become the world's leading manufacturer of civil helicopters. Thousands of Robinson helicopters have been delivered to operators around the globe. For several decades, Robinson’s R44 has been the world’s best-selling civil rotorcraft.

Rick Kenin is Chairman of the VAI Board of Directors and COO of Transport for Boston MedFlight, an air ambulance operator in the US Northeast. He commented, “Frank Robinson’s legacy is seen in every flight of the R22, R44, and R66.

“His work greatly expanded helicopter training and overall access to helicopters, enabling smaller companies and private owners to leverage the capabilities of vertical flight.  His enshrinement into the National Aviation Hall of Fame ensures that his contributions will be remembered alongside the greatest names in aviation history.”

The National Aviation Hall of Fame has inducted over 200 air and space pioneers since 1962, including Orville and Wilbur Wright, Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh, and Lawrence Bell, and now Frank Robinson joins that elite group as the first inductee from the vertical aviation industry.

FMI:  verticalavi.org/