Robinson Helicopter’s tie-up with United Therapeutics to develop a hybrid-electric version of the R66 is a sign of new CEO David Smith’s drive for innovation.
With a maximum takeoff weight of 2,500 lb. (1,133 kg), the company describes the aircraft as the “largest civilian drone available for purchase today.”
The company is studying hybrid-electric helicopters, continuing its electric certification drive and pushing Dash 7 conversion for NASA’s flight demonstrator.
David Smith, incoming president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter, says it is on the verge of growth plans that potentially include developing new, larger models.
U.S. startup Rotor Technologies is producing the first two R550X autonomous rotorcraft, which are uncrewed modifications of the Robinson R44 light helicopter.
U.S. startup Rotor Technologies has completed a flight test campaign with a pair of Robinson R22 light helicopters converted to autonomous flight control.
Skyryse has reached a milestone in its plans to improve the safety of general aviation by equipping aircraft with a highly automated flight control system.
