Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) has unveiled the R66 NxG at Verticon in Dallas. Refreshed inside and out, the R66 NxG offers new technology and standard safety equipment, including an impact resistant windshield and a two-axis autopilot as standard. It also includes updated materials and new paint schemes while remaining mission-capable, making the R66 more premium and accessible.

To simplify the ordering process, Robinson Helicopter is now offering the next generation R66 NxG in three trim levels. The base trim is the Southwood for buyers who need a capable workhorse without all the upgrades. The mid-grade trim, Palo Verde, includes optional upgraded avionics, additional premium leather interior colours and options, and an all-new exterior paint design. A limited edition aircraft called the Riviera also joins the lineup of the NxG family.

“Every Robinson Helicopter is designed and assembled in Torrance, California by our dedicated team of over 1,200 employees,” says David Smith, president and CEO. “To honour our hometown, we’ve named each new trim package after nearby neighbourhoods, the Southwood, the Palo Verde and the Riviera. This unique touch allows our employees and neighbours to share a piece of Torrance with every new R66 NxG.”

Southwood: The base-level NxG trim comes standard with Garmin G500H 700P/700P TXi avionics and a two-axis Garmin autopilot, two interior colour choices of Stone or Graphite, an impact-resistant windshield, new LED landing lights and the safety and reliability Robinson customers have come to rely upon at an accessible entry price.

Palo Verde: Equipped with Garmin G500H 700P/700P TXi or an optional 1060/700P TXi flight display, as well as Garmin GTN 750Xi GPS, Synthetic Vision, navigation and communications, GDL 60 Datalink and two-axis Garmin autopilot. Sun visors and ambient overhead lighting are standard on this trim while footwell lighting is available as an option. Design features include a Sand leather interior option and a new exterior paint scheme in a variety of standard and metallic paints.

Riviera limited edition: Only available for order in the next 12 months with a limited amount to be built, the Riviera offers advanced Garmin avionics and a three-axis autopilot. This unique aircraft also includes an exclusive Midnight and Umber interior. The headliner is made of Alcantara fabric, while the seats are offered in Midnight leather, accented with laser-etched suede inserts. In a departure from previous Robinson Helicopter models, the Riviera includes a light wood flooring that is both contemporary and functional. The aircraft exterior features a bold colour-block pattern in three all-new paint colours. The very first R66 Riviera Edition is serial number 1500.

All new materials are available on the R66 NxG and the upgraded interior moves to a more upscale appearance.

- Redesigned trim structures and paint schemes: Available with three new trim options for increased personalisation.

- All-glass cockpit: Replaces traditional round gauges with advanced digital displays for increased situation awareness and reduced pilot workload. Engine and system instruments are provided on the Garmin TXi display, offering additional awareness of operating limits using colour. Provides auto-relight, power check recording and engine data logging.

- Autopilot: Industry-first light helicopter with a standard two-axis Garmin autopilot and enhanced safety features like limit cueing, single button level mode, hover assist, overspeed and under speed protection, and an optional third axis.

- Polycarbonate impact-resistant windshield: Provides greater protection against bird strikes, drone strikes and other airborne debris.

- Air conditioning: Standard across all NxG trims.

- New interior: Features premium upholstery, incorporating high-quality finishes for an elevated passenger experience.

- New LED landing lights: Longer life and improved brightness for enhanced visibility during nighttime operations. NxG landing lights also include a pulse mode for further bird strike avoidance.

The R66 NxG also introduces an updated exterior paint palette, featuring a selection of new shades while removing Medium Gold, Metallic Orange and Dark Blue from the paint lineup. This evolution in colour options allows customers to choose a more modern array of colours and accents. Joining the metallic paints are Monarch Orange Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic and Sky Blue Metallic. In a departure from the previous Orange, the standard colour chart now features a richer shade of Orange, called California Poppy.

The Riviera is the premium trim option providing elevated style and functionality. It showcases quality craftsmanship with an exclusive interior design, featuring suede seat inserts sourced from Alcantara and easy-to clean, fabricated wood flooring for a more upscale appearance. All seats are 100 per cent leather sourced from Muirhead. Riviera’s exclusive paint scheme features a colour-block pattern of Monarch Orange Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic and Sky Blue Metallic.

“Robinson Helicopter recognises the diverse needs of its customers. While many rely on our helicopters for demanding missions like animal management, agricultural work and public safety, we also serve many customers who appreciate elevated design,” Smith explains. “This latest advancement sets a new standard for our company and the industry. We are committed to providing all our customers, whether they prioritise rugged performance for demanding work or unparalleled comfort for personal use, with both performance and safety.”