Robinson reveals all-new ten-seat R88
March 10, 2025
The Robinson Helicopter Company has revealed its long-awaited all-new multipurpose R88, defined as a “broad expansion of [its] product portfolio” and one which can perform a diverse range of missions. The tail-less mockup was unveiled to applause at this year’s Verticon 2025, introduced by Robinson Helicopter Company CEO David Smith, who explained: “This isn’t just a dream.” The R88 marks Robinson’s first all-new aircraft in nearly 15 years, following the launch of its inaugural turbine-powered five-seat R66 product.
With work having been underway on the programme for around two years, the first flight of the single-engine R88 is planned for later this year, with EASA Part 27 certification and entry into service expected by the end of the decade. The aircraft will also be type-certified for optional single-pilot IFR operations, taking its total passenger capacity from eight to nine.
With an internal payload expected to accommodate over 3,000 lbs (delivering more than 3.5 hours of flight time and more than 350 nm of range), the R88 “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,” explained Robinson. Typical missions include passenger transport, cargo, HEMS operations, aerial firefighting and public safety missions.
Airframe design
Robinson’s largest helicopter to date, the R88 will feature an open-tail rotor and two-bladed main rotors system. Steel blades (rather than composite) will benefit from noise reduction measures, whereas the aircraft’s welded steel airframe will also feature increased use of composite.
Further features complement what Robinson terms “utility and safety,” with a new LED exterior lighting system comprising pulsed landing and taxi lights, tail rotor lighting, scene lighting and entry lights. In preparation for the workhorse’s mission requirements, the R88 will also be available with either standard skids or optional high skids for increased ground clearance and compatibility with a firefighting water tank.
Cabin configuration
As such, the “highly configurable” cabin features a flat floor, allowing for several configurations depending on mission specifics. These range from “multiple forward and club seating configurations” to air medical requirements, the latter facilitated by a fold-down, truck-bed-style rear door which can accommodate a HEMS stretcher as well as simplify cargo loading. Additionally, large sliding doors on each side will help facilitate loading of passengers or cargo.
Powerplant of choice
The R88 will be exclusively powered by the as-yet-uncertified Safran Helicopter Engines’ 950 shp class Arriel 2W, the newest variant of Safran’s best-selling Arriel family, and marking the first partnership between the companies. “Robinson has selected Safran’s Arriel 2W for our largest and most capable helicopter due to their unparalleled performance and proven reliability,” explained Smith. To date, more than 15,5000 Arriel units have been produced for over 40 different helicopter types.
At the time of delivery, customers will also automatically benefit from a ‘Serenity’ package featuring services such as unscheduled maintenance for five years or 2,000 flying hours, premium health monitoring and advanced digital services. The inclusion of this package “provides our customers with the peace of mind they deserve, further solidifying our commitment to delivering the highest levels of safety and dependability,” continued Smith.
Although no price has been set for the upcoming aircraft, Robinson concluded that its “future workhorse for modern utility missions around the world” will offer “best in class performance at a price that redefines class expectations”. Typical competitors could include the five-passenger Bell 407 and up to six-passenger Airbus Helicopters H125, although the R88 is notably higher in total passenger capacity. Its starting price is estimated to be around $3.3 million.
