Robinson Helicopters delivered close to 400 helicopters in 2000, due to increased demand for the larger R44 unit and marking the US manufacturer's best year ever in terms of revenue. Robinson has also incorporated a number of improvements as standard equipment on the helicopter.
The Torrance, California-based company delivered 126 two-seat R22s and 264 R44s last year compared to 278 helicopters in 1999. While R-22 output remained largely static, sales of the four-seat helicopter jumped by over 100 machines, according to company president Frank Robinson.
He adds that approximately two-thirds of sales were for export, fuelled by particularly strong demand in Australia and Latin America and a pick up in the UK market. R22 production since 1979 totals 3,167 aircraft, while Robinson expects to deliver the 1,000th R44 in February.
Robinson attributes the increase in R44 demand to the decision in 1999 to offer hydraulic controls as an option, which it has since made a standard feature on the $300,000 helicopter. The company is also expanding the line of avionics offered on the helicopters to include King and Garmin global positioning systems (GPS).
The Mexican Navy in the meantime has taken delivery of two R22 Mariners and a single R44 Clipper. The R22s are being used for pilot training and are equipped with floats, an auxiliary fuel system, GPS and direction finder. The four-seat helicopter is being employed as a transporter.
Source: Flight International
