Nearly 15 years after the R66 received FAA certification, Robinson Helicopter has unveiled significant upgrades to its single-engine turbine helicopter. Now called the R66 NxG, the latest version adds an integrated Garmin avionics suite with autopilot, impact-resistant windshield, and new interior material and exterior paint scheme options.

Two R66 NxG models are on display at Robinson’s Verticon exhibit in Dallas, and buyers will be able to choose from three trim levels: Riviera, Southwood, and Palo Verde.

All new R66 orders starting at Verticon will be for the NxG versions, according to Robinson president and CEO David Smith, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. “It's a relatively straightforward certification,” he said.

A three-axis Garmin autopilot will be standard on the Riviera, a limited edition R66 NxG that can be ordered only during the next 12 months. The Riviera Midnight + Umber interior includes an Alcantara fabric headliner and midnight leather seat covering accented with laser-etched suede inserts.

Flooring is made of a light wood, a new feature for Robinson helicopters. Three new paint colors in a “bold color-block pattern” are available. The first Riviera R66, serial number 1500, is on display this week at Verticon.

The base-level R66 NxG trim is the Southwood edition, with Garmin G500H and 700P/700P TXi displays and two-axis autopilot, impact-resistant windshields, and LED landing lights. Stone or Graphite colors are the available interior choices.

Moving up to the Palo Verde version adds an optional Garmin 1060/700P TXi display and GTN 750 Xi navcom, synthetic vision, GDL 60 datalink, and the two-axis autopilot. Also included as standard with the Palo Verde are sun visors and ambient overhead lighting, with footwell lighting as an option. 

The Garmin avionics include engine indication system instrumentation on the TXi displays. The R66 NxG will also have auto engine relight capability, power check recording, and engine data logging.