Robinson Helicopter Co. Names New CEO

The move is only the second such change in the company’s 50-year history.

Kate O'Connor

Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 11:05 AM ET

Verified

David Smith has been named Robinson Helicopter Co.’s third president and CEO. [Courtesy: Robinson Helicopter Co.]

Key Takeaways:

David Smith has been appointed President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Co., effective immediately.
Smith succeeds Kurt Robinson, who led the company since 2010 and will transition to an advisory role while remaining on the board of directors.
Under Smith's leadership, the company plans to expand the performance and capabilities of its current products, develop new ones, prioritize safety, and explore new technologies like electric and autonomous flight.

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Robinson Helicopter Co. announcedTuesday that former vice president of operations David Smith has been named its president and CEO.

Smith succeeds Kurt Robinson, who has served in the position since 2010. Smith is only the third to serve as president and CEO of Robinson, which was founded in 1973 by Kurt’s father, Frank. Kurt will be moving to an advisory role with the company and remain on its board of directors. The leadership transition is effective immediately.