On Sunday 9 March 2025, I was given the opportunity to attend the Robinson Helicopter Company exclusive launch of their latest thoroughbred – the Robinson R88 – at the Dallas Verticon (VAI) event.
The most capable, affordable, and easy-to-maintain workhorse in its class. This aircraft incorporates everything you’ve come to expect from a Robinson helicopter in the new design. The R88 will be type-certified for optional single-pilot IFR operations, opening up a new realm of possibilities for their customers.
Robinson R88 exterior
A CAA licensed helicopter engineer, a retired flight instructor (helicopters) and an active air accident investigator, his unique combination of expertise means that he is in demand from both aviation companies and aviation authorities across the world. Richard is a Robinson Helicopter Accident/Technical Investigator and has Factory Maintenance Training approval for the R22/R44/R66 types and conducts these courses in the UK, Europe and Worldwide.
Robinson R88 cockpit
The internal payload is expected to accommodate over 2,800 pounds and deliver more than 3.5 hours of flight time and more than 350 nautical miles of range. It will have the capacity for missions that require significant payloads, carrying up to two pilots and up to eight passengers for a passenger total of 1,800 pounds with a full fuel tank.
A standard data recording system with Datalink will automatically capture engine and system data for simplified operation and maintenance. A standard health usage monitoring system (HUMS) will monitor critical components and provide real-time track and balance data so operators can address issues before they affect operations.
The R88 incorporates dual hydraulics for pitch and roll for critical flight controls. Other standard safety features include an inlet barrier filter and impact-resistant windshields certified to Part 29 transport helicopter requirements.
Engine by Safran
The R88 introduces dual cyclic controls with removable controls on both sides, allowing the pilot in command to be in either the left or right seat with a passenger in the other seat. The all-new interior design features comfortable, functional seating, easy-to-maintain materials, and a versatile layout.
New LED exterior lighting, including pulse landing and taxi lights, tail rotor lighting, scene lighting, and entry lights, further enhance safety.
The Garmin avionics suite includes large Garmin G500H TXI displays and GTN navigators with touchscreen controls for easy operation, vivid displays, and extensive capabilities. For the first time, the G500H TXI will include a crew-alerting system to provide the pilot with intelligent information about the aircraft’s systems. It will offer a standard 4-axis autopilot from Garmin. This system will provide a full range of important safety functions, including level mode, hover assist, limit cueing, low/high speed protection, and low altitude protection.
David Smith (President & CEO of Robinson Helicoter Company) and Richard Mornington-Sanford
Robinson partnered with Safran Helicopter Engines to add the Arriel 2W engine, an industry benchmark for light helicopters. It’s a true workhorse, engineered for excellence, with outstanding performance, durability, and reliability. The R88 is expected to feature the new Serenity Package; it will be the first in its class to include 2000-hour/5-year Safran support-by-the hour in the base price of the R88. You are guaranteed immediate and direct Safran support from day one, with predictable costs and engine availability.
