Below: The VSKYLABS Robinson R66
The VSKYLABS development of the Robinson R66 project for X-Plane flight simulator was approved by the Robinson Helicopter Company. However, it is an independent VSKYLABS project which is not related, nor affiliated with the Robinson Helicopter Company.
PROJECT STATUS
Actively maintained and validated for the current X-Plane 12 release.
MANUALS
Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH)
PROJECT HISTORY
AVAILABILITY
SUPPORT & DISCUSSION
VSKYLABS Support Forum at X-Plane.org
Robinson R66 Turbine (simulation reference):
Light single-engine turbine helicopter of U.S. origin. First flown on 7 November 2007 and introduced into service in 2010. The type is distinguished by its five-seat configuration, two-blade main and tail rotors, and turbine powerplant, offering improved high-altitude and hot-weather performance over piston-powered predecessors. Typical quoted performance includes a cruise speed of up to 120 knots, range of approximately 350 nautical miles, and maximum operating altitude of 14,000 feet.
Role: Light single-engine utility helicopter
Manufacturer: Robinson Helicopter Company
Country of origin: United States
First flight: 7 November 2007
Introduction: 2010
Configuration: Conventional tail-rotor helicopter
Crew: 1
Passengers: Up to 4
Powerplant: One Rolls-Royce RR300 turboshaft engine, rated at 300 shp, derated to 270 shp for take-off and 224 shp maximum continuous
Maximum cruise speed: Up to 120 knots
Range: Approx. 350 nautical miles
Maximum operating altitude: 14,000 ft
Maximum gross weight: 2,700 lb
Project Introduction
This project is part of the VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' series, designed specifically for use with X-Plane cutting edge Flight Model.
The Robinson R66 helicopter is a 5-seat turbine powered helicopter. It utilizes a two-bladed rotor system, T-bar cyclic and the latest Robinson technology. The R66 is powered by the Rolls Royce RR300 turbo-shaft engine, which operates on Jet A fuel and offers increased reserve power and improve altitude performance. Hydraulic controls provide responsive handling and eliminates feedback forces.
The VSKYLABS R66 project is setting up a highly detailed and highly accurate Robinson R66 Turbine simulation along with full VR compatibility, within the default features of X-Plane, stretching it to its limits.
VSKYLABS R66 was inspired by the Epic Global Heli World Tour!
In 2018, BC Helicopters team (Mischa Gelb, Ruben Dias and Diogo Dias), flew around the world in the R66 helicopter, in an effort called 'EPIC Global Heli World Tour'. The mission lasted 97 days, in which the team covered 30,000 miles, stopping in 45 countries and flying over 5 continents. It established 2 new world records (fastest Antipode RTW on a helicopter, and longest RTW on a helicopter). During that tour, YouTube channel 'Pilot Yellow' shared a fascinating daily VLOG of the mission.
The EPIC Global world tour was one of the triggers that initiated the VSKYLABS R66 Project for X-Plane.
The VSKYLABS R66 default livery includes the EPIC 'C-GEAK' call-sign and paint scheme, which was approved for use in the project by BC Helicopters.
*Click HERE to re-directed to the Epic World Tour website.
Project Main Features
- VSKYLABS 'Test-Pilot' Project.
- Highly defined flight dynamics model of the Robinson R66 Turbine helicopter, built around the powerful, native X-Plane flight model.
- Highly detailed model of the Robinson R66 helicopter.
- Robust simulation of the R66 drive train and RR300 Turbo-shaft engine: Utilizes X-Plane's new and advanced free turbine simulation.
- Autorotation capable.
- Comprehensive systems: Drive system, Hydraulics flight controls, Engine Anti-ice, Starter-generator and ignition system, Fuel system, Auxiliary fuel system, Electrical system with functional CB panel, Lighting, Annunciator panel, Cabin heater, Rotor brake and more.
- Fully functional VR (Virtual Reality) Ready: highly interactive cockpit environment including levers, switches, fuel cut-off / shut-off guards, 3D checklist viewer, modular cyclic and more.
- Equipped with Robinson's 'later' advanced panel: a perfect mix of the traditional analog gauges and glass cockpit display.
- R66 Auxiliary fuel system.
- Fully featured G1000 (modified).
- Autopilot.
- Built-in Avitab Compatibility (Avitab plugin not included).
- Multi-Layer FMOD sound pack.
- The project is under constant development: development road-map is including flight model refinements, enhanced systems depth, additional liveries and other improvements.
- Highly responsive VSKYLABS support forums.
It is highly recommended to visit the Robinson Helicopter Company website, as it features official, useful information including POH and additional data (on the upper section of their website there is a 'Publications' tab which is including useful materials: https://robinsonheli.com/r66-specifications/
Disclaimer: The link/links which are provided in the VSKYLABS website and in the VSKYLABS R66 POH are provided *as is*. VSKYLABS is not responsible for its content. VSKYLABS is not affiliated with and/or endorsed by Robinson Helicopter Company. The links are brought here for the purpose of sharing common and public information resources for helicopter and R66 enthusiasts.
