Felipe Reitz & María Jesús Ardura
In March, we attended VERTICON 2025 in Dallas, hosted by Vertical Aviation International. Robinson Helicopter Company unveiled its brand-new R88 helicopter, along with the next-generation R66 NxG series.
One day before the official opening, we were invited to the exclusive reveal of the R88. In a close and enthusiastic setting, we had a firsthand look at the new aircraft and interviewed David Smith, President and CEO of RHC. During the opening ceremony, Smith highlighted the vital role Robinson helicopters play in agriculture, especially in fruit drying and frost control. He also referenced our agricultural short film, which showcases the importance of these helicopters in rural operations.
👉 Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel and event highlights on Instagram.
David Smith, Maria Jesus Ardura and Felipe Reitz
R88: Robinson’s New Workhorse Helicopter
The R88 stole the spotlight at VERTICON 2025, becoming the undisputed highlight of the event. Over 160 purchase commitments were made during the show alone — a remarkable figure that generated major buzz, especially in the South American market. Among them was a historic milestone for Chilean aviation: the very first R88 sold to Chile, purchased by Eagle Copters South America, marking a growing confidence in next-generation utility helicopters
Designed for demanding missions, the R88 is Robinson’s most powerful and versatile helicopter to date.
Key Features of the R88:
- Safran Arriel 2W engine delivering over 950 shp
- Capacity for 10 people (2 pilots + 8 passengers)
- Internal payload over 2,800 lbs
- 3.5 hours of endurance and a 350-nautical mile range
- Garmin G500H TXi avionics, 4-axis autopilot, and optional IFR certification
The R88 is expected to enter service by the end of the decade, opening a new chapter for light and medium utility aviation.
Next-Gen R66 NxG: Three Versions, One DNA
Robinson Helicopter Company also introduced the R66 NxG, the new generation of its flagship turbine helicopter. Three distinct versions were presented: Southwood, Palo Verde, and the limited-edition Riviera.
R66 NxG Variants:
- Southwood (Base Model)
- Garmin G500H 700P/700P TXi avionics
- 2-axis Garmin autopilot
- Impact-resistant windshield
- LED landing lights
- Interior options in Stone or Graphite tones
2. Palo Verde (Mid-Level Version)
- Optional Garmin G500H 1060/700P TXi avionics
- Garmin GTN 750Xi with synthetic visio
- GDL 60 Datalink
- Ambient lighting and sun visors
- Leather Sand-colored interior and new exterior paint schemes
3. Riviera (Limited Edition)
- Advanced Garmin avionics with 3-axis autopilot
- Exclusive Midnight + Umber interior with Alcantara upholstery and embossed leather accents
- Light wood flooring and color-blocked exterior paint scheme
- Serial number 1500 was showcased at VERTICON 2025
Eagle Copters South America also placed the first purchase commitment for the R66 NxG. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026, subject to FAA and other international regulatory approvals.
Strategic Partnerships and Industry Networking
During the show, we connected with senior executives from Eagle Copters and key aviation technology brands such as Garmin, Dart Aerospace, Bambi Bucket, Shadin Aviation, Rotor IA, and others. It was a valuable opportunity to build partnerships and explore how these innovations will directly enhance our operations.
We recorded technical content, conducted interviews, and spoke with industry leaders. For Aerotoscana, being part of VERTICON 2025 was an essential step toward staying at the forefront of light aviation innovation.
Ready for the 2025 Agricultural Season
After a week full of breakthroughs and partnerships, we returned to Chile energized and focused on the upcoming agricultural season. With technical support from Eagle Copters and the new technologies presented, we’re ready to take our aerial operations to the next level.
Let’s make the 2025 season our best yet!