Aircraft overview

The Robinson R22 is a two-seat, piston-powered light helicopter built by Robinson Helicopter Company in California. The prototype first flew in 1975, FAA certification followed in 1979, and production has continued in evolved forms since then. Designed as a simple, economical helicopter for training, private flying, patrol, and light utility work, the R22 became important because it made new helicopter ownership and ab initio rotorcraft training more accessible than larger turbine or four-seat piston types. Its compact size, low operating weight, and high production volume also mean that used examples are widely represented in flight schools and private fleets.

Performance & specifications

Typical R22 performance depends on variant, engine condition, equipment, and loading, but the commonly encountered R22 Beta II cruises at about 90-96 knots. Published maximum range is around 200 nautical miles with standard fuel, with practical planning figures often lower after reserves and operating conditions are considered. Maximum gross weight is 1,370 lb, and useful load is typically in the high-400 lb range on many Beta II aircraft, varying with installed equipment. The service ceiling is published at 14,000 feet, though hover performance is much more limited and is sensitive to density altitude. The Beta II uses a Lycoming O-360-J2A four-cylinder engine, derated for helicopter use to 131 hp for takeoff and 124 hp continuous.

Cabin & avionics

The R22 cabin seats two occupants side by side, with dual controls commonly installed for training. Space is compact, visibility is a defining feature, and baggage capacity is limited to small under-seat compartments. The aircraft is primarily a VFR platform; factory and retrofit panels are usually conventional analog layouts with a radio, transponder, intercom, and engine/rotor instruments. Many used aircraft have Garmin or BendixKing communication and navigation units, ADS-B Out upgrades, GPS, or basic glass engine monitors, but systems such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical R22 equipment.

Buying & value

For buyers, the central R22 inspection points are total time, remaining time before the 2,200-hour or 12-year overhaul, component life status, logbook continuity, corrosion, blade history, hard-landing or rollover damage, and compliance with Robinson service bulletins and applicable airworthiness directives. Common variants include the earlier HP, Alpha, Beta, and the widely used Beta II; the Mariner version added flotation gear for over-water training and operations. On the used market, the R22 generally sits as an entry-level helicopter, with value strongly tied to remaining overhaul life. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price of about EUR 228,000, with observed asking prices ranging from roughly EUR 43,000 to EUR 465,000.