Robinson R88 vs Robinson R66

This compares the in-production R66 turbine with Robinson's upcoming R88 — a larger single-turbine projected for first deliveries in 2027–2028. One is available used today; the other is pre-order only.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Robinson R88
For sale now
3
Source marketplaces
2
Model years available
2028–2028
Robinson R66
For sale now
80
Median asking
$880,000
Range
$580,650–$1,565,200
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
13
Source marketplaces
12
Model years available
2011–2028

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Robinson R88Robinson R66
All events—40
Serious—4
Fatal—23
Fatalities—44
% Fatal—58%
View full Robinson R88 NTSB record →View full Robinson R66 NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Robinson R88 Robinson R66
Robinson R88
View 3 listings →
Robinson R66
View 81 listings →
Median $880,000
Price Range — $580,650 – $1,565,200
Category Single Turbine Helicopter Single Turbine Helicopter
Model Specifications
Seats — 5
Horsepower — 270 HP
Cruise Speed — 110 kts (204 km/h)
Range — 350 nm (648 km)
Service Ceiling — 14,000 ft (4,267 m)
Max Gross Weight — 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg)
Useful Load — 1,100 lbs (499 kg)
Fuel Capacity — 74.0 gal (280 L)
Fuel Burn — 23.0 GPH (87 L/h)
TBO — 2,200 hrs
Overhaul Cost — $200,000
Annual Fixed — $35,000
Hourly Variable — $300
Engines — 1 x Turbine

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Robinson R88

Robinson R66

Fuel$126/hr
Variable$300/hr
Annual Fixed$35,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $95,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Robinson R88 or Robinson R66?

Bottom line: choose the R66 if you want a proven five-seat turbine you can buy now. Consider the R88 only if you need a substantially larger turbine and are willing to wait for production and pay for the newer, bigger platform.

Pick the R88 if…

  • Newer design — production from 2027 vs 2010.

Pick the R66 if…

  • More inventory — 81 listings vs 3.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Robinson R88 or Robinson R66?
It depends on your mission and budget. The R66 cruises at 110 kts with 350 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Robinson R66: from $1,659,500. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Robinson R88 and Robinson R66?
R66 engine: Rolls-Royce RR300 (270 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R66: about $300/hr variable cost. Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
R66: 5 seats / 1,100 lb useful load. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
R66: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$200,000. Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data