Robinson Helicopter debuts R88 at APSCON 2025

Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) publicly debuted its all-new R88 helicopter at APSCON/APSCON Unmanned 2025, which took place in Phoenix, Arizona, from 16–18 July. This marked the first public display of the aircraft since its initial unveiling at Verticon in March.

The R88 is RHC’s largest and most advanced aircraft in nearly 15 years. The 10-seat, single-engine turbine platform is powered by a Safran Arriel 2W engine and is designed specifically to meet the needs of public safety operators, including air medical, law enforcement, and firefighting missions.

Key features include a fully configurable interior with a flat floor, large dual sliding doors, and a fold-down rear door, allowing for stretcher integration and other mission-specific setups. The aircraft can be equipped with high skids for ground clearance, a firefighting water tank, 3,000lb human external cargo (HEC) rated cargo hook, utility basket, wire strike protection kit, and pop-out floats.

The R88 also introduces a new Garmin avionics suite, including a standard 4-axis autopilot, dual hydraulics, inlet barrier filter, and LED exterior lighting. Impact-resistant windshields further enhance operational safety.

“We designed the R88 to meet the evolving demands of public safety aviation,” said David Smith, President and CEO of RHC. “It offers greater mission flexibility while maintaining RHC’s reputation for reliability, affordability, and safety.”

The R88 is being developed under an all-new type certificate, with flight testing and certification ongoing. Deposits are now being accepted through authorised RHC dealers.

RHC subsidiary Ascent AeroSystems also exhibited at APSCON, highlighting its uncrewed coaxial platforms and manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) capabilities.

RHC recently joined forces with disaster relief nonprofit Operation Helo at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025 to promote the need for more volunteer helicopter pilots during major emergencies.