A first edition for Verticon! It was with great honor that we attended the opening of the very first Verticon (formerly HAI) in Dallas. Under a dazzling new branding, the show remained true to itself in its ability to host and bring together helicopters, eVTOLs, and enthusiasts.
Once again this year, progress was front and center, with manufacturers continuing to develop increasingly innovative solutions.
Let us take you through a simple and exclusive recap!
ROBINSON
Robinson Reaching New Heights!
Last year was marked by the announcement of David Smith’s appointment as president. Once again, Robinson blew us away at Verticon this year!
After a slick marketing campaign on social media to whet our appetite in the weeks leading up to the show, the big announcement was made! Fifteen years after the launch of the R66, the manufacturer is expanding its range with the R88.
And let us tell you—it’s a powerhouse! More space, more power—it now takes on a new competitive position as a single-engine aircraft alongside twin-engine models like the Airbus H135 and Bell 429.
Here’s a closer look:
Designed like a “pickup truck”, it’s built for outdoor missions (wildfire fighting, medical rescue, tourism…) but also perfect for family outings.
- 10 seats: 2 pilots / 8 passengers across two rows of 4 individually removable seats, offering flexible interior space management.
- Interior volume: 275 cubic feet (7.8 m³) – larger than the Bell 429.
- Engine: Robinson’s first collaboration with Safran, featuring the Arriel 2W model. A single engine delivering 950+ horsepower. The “Serenity Package” offers a 5,000-hour TBO and an extended warranty.
- Payload and range: 1,800 lb (815 kg), extendable to 1,500 kg in lighter configuration with full fuel and a range of over 3.5 hours.
- Price: Announced at $3.3 million USD, making it hard to beat in terms of manufacturing, maintenance, and repair costs. Like all Robinson helicopters, it offers absolute efficiency.
- Included equipment :
- Garmin cockpit: G500H TXi and GTN touchscreen navigators.
- New Garmin 4-axis autopilot as standard, boosting safety with features such as hover assist, limit detection, and more.
- Dual hydraulic controls, inlet barrier filter, impact-resistant windshield, and HUMS (Health and Usage Monitoring System) for real-time component tracking.
- Optional equipment: 3,000 lb external cargo hook, external cargo pod, pop-out floats, and an elevated step for firefighting missions.
RHC plans to produce 100 to 200 units per year. According to David Smith, FAA certification is expected by 2029, and orders are already open with a $200,000 USD deposit (refundable until FAA certification is obtained).
But Robinson isn’t stopping there! This year, Robinson also unveiled new R66 NxG editions (NxG for Next Generation).
Three versions are available (certification on going) with re-designed new interiors: Southwood, Palo Verde and the Riviera Limited Edition, which replace the existing range to streamline production.
- Southwood
Garmin G500H 700P, 2-axis autopilot, impact-resistant windshield, and air conditioning.
- Palo Verde :
The G500H 700P can be upgraded with the Garmin 1060, Synthetic vision, GDL 60 datalink, 2-axis autopilot, and air conditioning.
- Riviera Limited Edition
Available for order only for the next 12 months. Exclusive interior, Full Garmin avionics suite (including the 1060), 3-axis autopilot, and thin wood flooring – a first for Robinson!
Climb Higher
Launched last year, RHC’s documentary series “Climb Higher” continues its journey around the world, stopping in the U.S., Brazil, Australia, and beyond.
Robyn Eagles (Director of Marketing and Communications), pictured here, has transformed Robinson’s image by showcasing how helicopters can be powerful work tools as well as sources of enjoyment.
Bravo to her team!
Heli Tow Cart
This year, Robinson unveiled the first results of its active collaboration with Robinson Helicopter: an upgraded V201 version designed for the R22, R44, and R66 models. It features a mirror and a hoist control relocated to the mast, improving maneuverability.
A new trolley model is also in development, designed specifically for the newly revealed
R88.
Additionally, a 4-wheel-drive trolley is coming soon for heavier helicopters, allowing for transport over uneven surfaces such as grass, gravel, dirt, or ice.
Feel free to contact JC for more information.
AIRBUS
This year, Airbus Helicopters unveiled its new twin-engine model: the H140, based on the H135. It features larger windows, increased interior volume, and five blades, aiming tostrengthen Airbus’s presence in the HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) sector.
2024 was a strong year for Airbus, and with continued momentum into 2025, the company plans to increase production by 30%, particularly thanks to the H160, which debuted last year.
BELL
Bell announced an agreement with Air Methods for 27 aircraft, mainly 407GX and 429 models. However, the company once again delayed the arrival of its 525, potentially the largest helicopter in its lineup. Even after 10 years since its first flight, certification is still pending.
The 214ST could make a comeback to meet the growing demand for aerial firefighting solutions.
This year’s show was undoubtedly energized by Robinson’s exciting innovations.
Don’t hesitate to call JC for more details — he’s at your service!
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