Robinson Helicopter and United Therapeutics Partner to Develop Hydrogen-Powered Helicopters
Key Ideas
  • Robinson Helicopter and United Therapeutics are collaborating to develop hydrogen-powered helicopters, with test flights for a modified R44 underway.
  • The partnership aims to create a hydrogen-powered, optionally piloted R66 helicopter for organ transport, focusing on zero-emissions flight and autonomy.
  • The companies plan to retrofit the larger R66 helicopter, pursue certification, and leverage Robinson's expertise to accelerate development.
  • Robinson's CEO, David Smith, emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and simplicity of hydrogen-powered helicopters compared to eVTOL aircraft for decarbonisation.
Robinson Helicopter and United Therapeutics have joined forces in a pioneering effort to develop hydrogen-powered helicopters. The companies have conducted ground tests on a modified R44 equipped with hydrogen fuel cells, with test flights imminent at United Therapeutics' facility near Montreal. The collaboration aims to advance development towards a hydrogen-powered, optionally piloted R66 helicopter for organ transportation, emphasizing zero-emissions flight and autonomy capabilities. United Therapeutics' subsidiary, Unither Bioelectronic, is spearheading the project to utilize novel aircraft technologies for organ transport, including eVTOLs. The partnership entails retrofitting the R66, seeking certification from Transport Canada and the FAA, and leveraging Robinson's expertise. Robinson's CEO, David Smith, highlights the strategic shift towards electrification and hydrogen propulsion, supported by internal resources and expertise. The R66 platform is viewed as ideal for hydrogen propulsion due to its design features, and United Therapeutics' prior work in flight testing complements the collaboration. Smith expresses confidence in the cost-effectiveness and operational simplicity of hydrogen-powered helicopters over eVTOL aircraft for decarbonisation. United Therapeutics' pragmatic approach of modifying existing airframes for certification and focusing on organ transport routes enhances the project's feasibility and societal impact. Overall, the collaboration signifies a significant milestone in advancing sustainable aviation technologies.
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