Robinson’s 2008 Numbers Set a New Record

Torrance, California-based Robinson Helicopter continues its upward trend-in the face of a fast autorotating economy, no less. Last year, Robinson built 893 civil helicopters, surpassing its 2007 record year of 823. Fully 80 percent of the rotorcraft built last year were four-place R44s-60 percent Raven IIs and 20 percent Raven Is. The remaining 20 percent consisted of 164 examples of Robinson's two-place R22-a staple in the rotorcraft training market. The company reports it intends to continue riding the wave of success, but will not rest on its significant laurels. Priorities for this year include further product development and maintaining its current record production levels.

Mark Phelps is a senior editor at AVweb. He is an instrument rated private pilot and former owner of a Grumman American AA1B and a V-tail Bonanza.

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