Robinson Helicopter Company has unveiled the R88, its first all-new aircraft in nearly 15 years. Designed for a range of missions, the larger single-engine helicopter offers increased capability while maintaining Robinson’s emphasis on reliability, affordability and safety.

The highly configurable R88 can support aerial firefighting, air medical transport, utility work and passenger transport. Its adaptable interior allows for rapid reconfiguration to meet different operational needs. “With the unveiling of the R88, we expect to disrupt the single-engine helicopter market, offering superior performance and capabilities at a competitive price,” says Robinson Helicopter Company president and CEO David Smith.

Robinson has partnered exclusively with Safran Helicopter Engines to power the R88 with the Arriel 2W, the latest variant in its Arriel engine family. The engine provides 1,000 shaft horsepower and is widely used in demanding global missions. Safran CEO Cédric Goubet states: “At Safran Helicopter Engines, we are proud to establish this first-ever partnership with Robinson Helicopter Company. With the Arriel 2W, the new R88 helicopter obtains the best propulsion solution in its power range.”

The R88 will include the Serenity package as standard, offering customers five years or 2,000 flight hours of unscheduled maintenance coverage, premium health monitoring and advanced digital services. Robinson’s customers will also benefit from Safran’s worldwide support network and streamlined MRO services. “The inclusion of the Serenity package provides our customers with the peace of mind they deserve,” adds Smith.

With a seating capacity of up to 10 and a payload capability of 1,800 pounds with full fuel, the R88 is Robinson’s largest aircraft to date. It offers a range exceeding 350 nautical miles and endurance of over 3.5 hours. Its cabin features a flat floor with multiple seating configurations, a fold-down rear door for cargo access and compatibility with a HEMS stretcher.

Avionics include a Garmin suite with large G500H TXi displays, touchscreen GTN navigators and a four-axis autopilot with hover assist and limit cueing. Safety features include dual hydraulic flight controls, impact-resistant windshields and LED exterior lighting for enhanced visibility. The aircraft also introduces dual cyclic controls, allowing the pilot to operate from either seat.

The R88 is undergoing rigorous certification and testing. Robinson will begin accepting deposits from authorised dealers on Tuesday, 11 March 2025, at Verticon. The aircraft’s base price is set at $3.3 million for a highly equipped standard configuration.