The Robinson R22 Beta II is a two-seat small rotorcraft powered by a single Lycoming O-360-J2A four-cylinder,
air-cooled piston engine. The R22 was designed by the founder of the Robinson Helicopter Company, Frank Robinson.
Design of the Robinson R22 helicopter began in 1973, and an 85kW (115hp)
Lycoming O235 powered prototype flew for the first time on 28 August 1975. A second
followed in early 1977. The FAA certification was achieved on 16 March 1979 and deliveries
started in October of that year. On 5 August 1985, the Beta model was certified. The R22 Beta had a
larger oil cooler and associated installation changes were made to permit the 131 hp. takeoff rating with the O-320 engine.
In 1995, the R22 Beta II model, with the Lycoming O-360-J2A engine installed, entered production. This
engine is installed on s/n 2571 and subsequent in production. Over
4600 Robinson R22 helicopters are delivered to customers all over the world. |