NOTE: This article has been revised and reflects updated information published in the 23 October, 2024 Robinson newsletter.
Introduction
As we enter the final quarter of 2024, Rotorcorp is pleased to present its 5th Annual Year-End Maintenance Planning Guide. This resource is designed to equip Robinson R22, R44, and R66 helicopter owners and operators with essential information to make informed decisions regarding upcoming overhauls or major component purchases.
In previous years, this guide has primarily focused on forecasting the prices of overhaul kits for the upcoming year. While this information has been useful to some, our experience has shown that providing guidance on timing orders to align with customer needs—while leveraging our monthly group order pricing—offers greater value.
Traditionally, prices increases have been implemented in mid-January each year. In a departure from precedent, Robinson announced that new 2025 prices will take effect on January 1st 2025, with Robinson honoring 2024 prices on orders submitted before December 31st. That said, it’s important to note that all signs point to another price increase likely in the range of 3.5-4%.
Group Order and Estimated Delivery Dates
The chart below offers guidance on when operators can expect delivery of their specific overhaul kit if ordered as part of one of our upcoming group orders. By participating in a Rotorcorp group order, customers can share in a larger discount on major purchases; better managing maintenance budgets and stretching cashflow.
Overhaul Kit Contents and Pricing
Don’t Need a Complete Overhaul Kit? We’ve Got You Covered
High interest rates, a stricter lending environment, pricing increases, and a stronger dollar are presenting significant headwinds for cash-strapped Robinson helicopter operators. These pressures are pushing operators to adopt more creative and flexible strategies when overhauling their R22, R44, and R66 helicopters. This shift has led to increased scrutiny on optional items – at the nut-and-bolt level – with a heightened focus on the essential parts required to maintain continued airworthiness without jeopardizing safety.
As the world’s largest civilian helicopter manufacturer, Robinson has become known for its reliability and affordability. With an estimated 300 aircraft reaching their life limits every year, Robinson developed comprehensive field overhaul kits, providing the R22, R44, and R66 with an additional 2000, 2200, and 2400 flight hours, respectively.
In 2024, Rotorcorp observed a significant shift in a customer preference worth noting. Many are moving away from the convenience of designated overhaul kits, opting instead to prioritize cost saving by customizing an overhaul parts lists tailored specifically to their immediate maintenance needs.
Rotorcorp’s investment in a robust inventory management and ordering system allows our team the flexibility to quickly and accurately provide customers the quotes they need to make a purchasing decision. No laborious manual line entry here as our automated system can easily and quickly upload your list and provide pricing with unlimited adjustments on-the-fly. This allows our customers to get the parts they need at a fair price and nothing more.
Do you have a long list of parts you need quoted to return your critical Robinson helicopter to the sky? Contact our customer service team by email or phone. We are here to serve.
