In a dramatic departure from its iconic light-aircraft roots, Robinson Helicopter Company just shook the aviation world with the reveal of its largest and most powerful model yet—the R88. Debuting at the annual VERTICON trade show, this 10-passenger aircraft isn’t just another helicopter—it’s a reimagining of what mid-size rotorcraft can offer across luxury, commercial, and emergency aviation.
Best known for the compact and dependable R22, which revolutionized personal aviation in 1979, Robinson now looks to redefine versatility in the skies. According to CEO David Smith, the R88 was “designed for quick reconfiguration,” making it as dynamic as an SUV—ready to switch from executive shuttle to air ambulance or even aerial firefighter at a moment’s notice.
The R88 is equipped with a 1,000-hp Safran Arriel 2W turbine engine, giving it the muscle to support a range of heavy-duty operations, while maintaining Robinson’s signature values of safety and cost-efficiency. With a top-tier Garmin G500H glass cockpit, dual cyclic controls, and a 4-axis autopilot system as standard, the R88 is not just flying into a new category—it’s leading it.
The cabin, which spans 275 cubic feet, comfortably seats up to 10 people and is lined with luxe details inspired by automotive design. The interior’s modularity means it can be converted for family travel with club seating, stripped down for medevac missions, or outfitted for aerial cargo work. Add in air-conditioning, lightweight bird-strike-resistant windows, and a cockpit camera, and the result is a future-forward aviation platform ready to take on nearly any challenge.
Smith proudly positioned the R88 as “the largest active single-engine helicopter on the market,” with an expected range of over 350 nautical miles, endurance of 3.5 hours, and internal payload capacity of 2,800+ pounds. In a world where twin engines often add cost and weight unnecessarily, the R88 delivers comparable utility—with less complexity.
And perhaps the most striking part? The price. At $3.3 million, the R88 is poised to become the most affordable aircraft in its class, effectively disrupting a market long dominated by heavier, twin-engine alternatives.
Robinson’s move into this new segment isn’t just an expansion—it’s a statement. With the R88, they’re not just building helicopters; they’re redefining multi-mission mobility for a new era of private, corporate, and emergency aviation.
