Robinson R22

The lightweight helicopter built to make rotary flight accessible.

Robinson R22 Beta © Alan Wilson

Overview

Robinson United States ICAO: R22 1979–Present Active $318,000 (2021)

The Robinson R22 entered service in the late 1970s as an affordable two-seat light helicopter. Designed for training and personal use, it emphasized simplicity and low operating costs. The aircraft has become one of the most produced helicopters in history.

Live Fleet Activity (R22)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Lycoming O-360 Four-Cylinder
Engine type
Piston
Power
131 hp · 98 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
2
Crew
—
Cabin width
3 ft 3 in  ·  1.00 m
Cabin height
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Cabin length
4 ft 3 in  ·  1.30 m
Exterior length
28 ft 9 in  ·  8.76 m
Tail height
8 ft 11 in  ·  2.72 m
Fuselage diameter
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Wing span
25 ft 3 in  ·  7.70 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
1,350 lb  ·  600 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
500 lb  ·  250 kg
Fuel capacity
30 gal · 100 L · 100 kg (AvGas)
Max cruise speed
96 kt  ·  110 mph  ·  178 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
250 nm  ·  290 mi  ·  460 km
Fuel burn
10.86 nm/gal  ·  5.31 km/L
Ceiling
14,000 ft  ·  4,300 m
Rate of climb
1,200 ft/min  ·  6 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Robinson R22 Beta.

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Operational Context

Robinson R22 — two-seat light helicopter

The R22 first flew in 1975 and entered service in 1979. Its semi-rigid two-blade rotor system and compact airframe keep weight and complexity low. The helicopter was engineered specifically for flight training.

A Lycoming piston engine producing approximately 160 horsepower powers the R22. Cruise speed approaches 95 knots (176 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is approximately 1,370 pounds (621 kg).

The R22 is widely used by flight schools around the world. Its handling characteristics require disciplined pilot technique. Production continues, making it a foundational aircraft in helicopter training.