Company Recorded A 45 Percent Increase Over Last Year's Production Rate

The past year turned out to be a good one for Robinson helicopter. Despite a sluggish economy, the company posted a significant production increase over the previous year, with the majority of sales being racked up overseas.

Robinson Helicopter’s production for 2012 was 517 helicopters, (286) R44s, (191) R66s, and (40) R22s, a 45 percent increase over 2011’s production of 356. As in previous years, the majority of those sales (70 percent) went to foreign customers.

Based on the backlog of new orders, Robinson anticipates 2013’s production numbers to surpass 2012’s. The current production rate is set at twelve aircraft per week and with its workforce numbering more than 1300, the company is well positioned to increase production later in the year.

Demand for R66 upgrades specifically floats and a cargo hook has been greater than expected, prompting Robinson to make certification of these options a top priority for 2013. The FAA certified the R66 in October, 2010, three years and eight months after it was announced. The aircraft is powered by a Rolls-Royce RR300 turboshaft engine. The R66 went into preliminary production in 2010, with the first delivery in November of that year, and into full production in 2011. The FAA certified a police version of the aircraft in September of last year.

Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company is the world’s leading manufacturer of civil helicopters.

(Robinson R44 image provided by Robinson Helicopter)

FMI: www.robinsonheli.com