Robinson R66 Turbine

Aircraft Information
> Aircraft Make: Robinson Helicopter Company Model: R66. Nickname: Turbine
> Aircraft Mil Civ Description: Helicopter
> FAA Category and Class: Rotorcraft/Helicopter
> Engine Description: single Rolls-Royce RR300 turboshaft engine

Aircraft Experience
> As of: 11/7/2024
> Number of Hours Flown: 5
> Number of Times Flown: 4
> Other Aircraft Models Associated: —

First Flown Information
> Sequence First Flown: 182
> Date First Flown: 1/23/2020
> Location First Flown: Auburn Airport, WA (S50)
> Who and/or What Organization First Flown With: Classic Helicopters, Dan Dornan

Recollections: The R66 flies like a more powerful R44 and is a natural step forward for Robinson.  The only thing is starting it was always a tension-producing event.  Why a FADEC was not incorporated always seemed to be a mystery to me. 

I got checked out at a local FBO but, unfortunately, not too long after the checkout another pilot “cooked the engine” on startup.  Requires an overhaul and I guess that was the end of the R66 rental business. 

Later, I flew with the Robinson company (RHC famous pilot Dale Taft) on an “early look” at an autopilot system in the R66.

Filed Under: Helicopter176+