Robinson Helicopter Company unveiled two innovative R66 helicopters as part of the updated R66 NxG series at Verticon in Dallas. This "next generation" aircraft represents a significant advancement, aligning with the 15th anniversary of the original R66, which commenced production in 2010.
The R66 NxG features comprehensive updates both internally and externally, incorporating new technology and standard safety enhancements, such as an impact-resistant windshield and a standard 2-axis autopilot. Additionally, the R66 NxG boasts upgraded materials and new paint designs while maintaining its operational capabilities, thereby enhancing the R66's premium appeal and accessibility.
To streamline the ordering process, Robinson Helicopter is introducing the next-generation R66 NxG in three distinct trim levels. The entry-level trim, Southwood, is tailored for buyers seeking a reliable workhorse without additional upgrades. The mid-tier trim, Palo Verde, offers optional upgraded avionics, a selection of premium leather interior colours and options, and a new exterior paint design. Additionally, a Limited-Edition aircraft, the Riviera, is now part of the NxG lineup.
"Every Robinson Helicopter is designed and assembled in Torrance, California, by our dedicated team of over 1,200 employees," said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. "To honour our hometown, we've named each new trim package after nearby neighbourhoods, the Southwood, the Palo Verde and the Riviera. This unique touch allows our employees and neighbours to share a piece of Torrance with every new R66 NxG."
THE LINE UP:
SOUTHWOOD: The base-level NxG trim is the Southwood model. It comes equipped with standard Garmin G500H 700P/700P TXi avionics and a 2-axis Garmin autopilot. Customers can choose between two interior colour options: Stone or Graphite. Additionally, it features an impact-resistant windshield, new LED landing lights, and the safety and reliability that Robinson customers have come to trust, all at an accessible entry price.
PALO VERDE: The Palo Verde is outfitted with a Garmin G500H 700P/700P TXi or an optional 1060/700P TXi flight display, alongside the Garmin GTN 750Xi GPS, Synthetic Vision, Navigation and Communications, GDL 60 Datalink, and a 2-axis Garmin autopilot. Standard features for this model include sun visors and ambient overhead lighting, with optional footwell lighting available. The design offers a Sand leather interior option and a new exterior paint scheme available in a range of standard and metallic finishes.
RIVIERA LIMITED EDITION: Available for order only within the next 12 months, with a limited production run, the Riviera features advanced Garmin avionics and a 3-axis autopilot. This distinctive aircraft also boasts an exclusive Midnight + Umber interior. The headliner is crafted from Alcantara fabric, while the seats are upholstered in midnight leather, accented with laser-etched suede inserts. Departing from previous Robinson Helicopter models, the Riviera incorporates light wood flooring that is both modern and functional. The aircraft's exterior showcases a striking colour-block pattern in three new paint colours. The inaugural R66 Riviera Edition, Serial Number 1500, was on display at Verticon 2025.
Premium Interior, Standard Equipment: All new materials are now available on the R66 NxG. The enhanced interior offers a more upscale appearance with three new colour options: the standard Stone on the Southwood trim, and a choice between the lighter Sand or the darker Graphite for the mid-level Palo Verde trim. Redesigned Trim Structures and Paint Schemes: Now offered with three new trim options to enhance personalization.
All-Glass Cockpit: Replaces conventional analogue gauges with sophisticated digital displays to enhance situational awareness and decrease pilot workload. The Garmin TXi display presents engine and system instruments, offering improved awareness of operating limits through the use of colour. Features include auto-relight, power check recording, and engine data logging.
Autopilot: Introducing the industry's first light helicopter equipped with a standard 2-axis Garmin Autopilot, complemented by advanced safety features such as limit cueing, a single-button level mode, hover assist, overspeed and underspeed protection, along with an optional third axis.
Polycarbonate Impact-Resistant Windshield: This windshield provides superior protection against bird strikes, drone collisions, and other airborne debris.
Air Conditioning: All NxG trims come equipped with standard air conditioning.
The new interior boasts premium upholstery and high-quality finishes, elevating the passenger experience.
New LED Landing Lights: Enhanced lifespan and improved brightness for superior visibility during nighttime operations. NxG landing lights also include a pulse mode to further reduce the risk of bird strikes.
ENHANCED EXTERIOR DESIGN, PAINT COLORS AND PAINT SCHEMES:
The R66 NxG introduces an updated paint palette, featuring a variety of new shades and removing Medium Gold, Metallic Orange, and Dark Blue from the lineup. This change offers customers a more modern selection of colours and accents. The metallic paint options now feature Monarch Orange Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic, and Sky Blue Metallic. The standard colour chart now includes a deeper shade called California Poppy, replacing the previous Orange.
The Riviera is the premium trim option, providing enhanced style and functionality. It showcases exceptional craftsmanship with a unique interior design, featuring Alcantara suede seat inserts and durable, fabricated wood flooring for an elevated appearance. All seating is made from 100% Muirhead leather. The Riviera’s exclusive paint scheme includes a colour-block pattern of Monarch Orange Metallic, Pacific Blue Metallic, and Sky Blue Metallic.
“Robinson Helicopter recognizes the diverse needs of its customers. While many rely on our helicopters for demanding missions like animal management, agricultural work, and public safety, we also serve many customers who appreciate elevated design,” Smith explains. “This latest advancement sets a new standard for our company and the industry. We are committed to providing all our customers – whether they prioritize rugged performance for demanding work, or unparalleled comfort for personal use – with both performance and safety.”
