The Robinson 66 Turbinetruck marks a new step in the development of unmanned helicopter control systems.

The Turbinetruck is a new unmanned, fully autonomous cargo helicopter based on one of the most popular and in-demand Robinson R66 Turbine helicopters.

The helicopter is designed primarily for cargo transportation, potential rescue, and other special missions.

This project was made possible by completely modernizing the helicopter’s cabin, not only inside but also outside. To achieve this, the interior of the passenger version was removed, including controls, seats, and trim. The removal of the pilot and the modernized cabin significantly lighten the helicopter, allowing for increased cargo capacity.

Externally, the model retains the familiar contours of the R66 helicopter, while modifications were made to the fuselage elements, door placement, and the installation of hinged doors in place of the windshields for access to the cargo compartment.

The helicopter is controlled and operated using the Matrix system from Sikorsky Aircraft. It utilizes sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence, allowing the system to act as a digital pilot, submitting a flight plan, and guiding takeoffs, landings, obstacle avoidance, and flight along a pre-planned route. All you need to do is load the helicopter.

The helicopter retains its familiar Rolls-Royce 300 engine, making it easy to operate and maintain throughout its life.

Sikorsky has logged over a thousand hours of flight time on various helicopter types using Matrix technology. A prototype helicopter has already been manufactured and has been publicly unveiled. Robinson continues to develop the model, with the first flight planned for 2027.

This is not Robinson’s first experience with unmanned systems on helicopters. The company previously unveiled the Airtruck, an autonomous cargo platform based on the Robinson R44 helicopter.

29 MARCH 2026