Robinson R66 Helicopter Program Receives First Production RR300 Engine

Released on Friday, March 14, 2008

A newly-commissioned small engine assembly line at the Rolls-Royce facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, this week completed the assembly and test of its first production RR300 engine for installation in the new Robinson Helicopters' R66.

Ken Roberts, Acting President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter business said: "The RR300 engine program has gone from concept to reality in under two years. Today's delivery milestone follows closely on the heels of receiving the Federal Aviation Administration Type and Production Certification awards.

"It also signals the start of full-rate production for the RR30; hundreds of which are on order by Robinson Helicopters over the next few years."

The RR300 is the newest member of the Rolls-Royce family of helicopter engines and the first to provide turbine power in the lower shaft horsepower (shp) range. This is the first time there has been a proven turbine alternative to piston engines, representing a major step forward in the helicopter industry. The engine delivers 300 shaft horsepower (shp) at take-off, excellent hot and high performance and outstanding value.

A prototype RR300 engine has been flying on a Robinson helicopter since mid-2007.

In addition to orders with Robinson Helicopters, Rolls-Royce also signed Memoranda of Understanding with Enstrom Helicopters, Schweizer Aircraft and MD Helicopters to evaluate future applications of the new RR300 engine family.