U.S. Army selects Robinson R66 as primary trainer for new helicopter pilot training program

Published Aug 14, 09:03 PM UTC

The U.S. Army has selected the Robinson R66 Turbine as the primary trainer for its new Flight School Next program, marking a major overhaul of entry-level rotary-wing pilot training. On August 13, the Army awarded M1 Support Services a potential $10-billion contract to run the contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO) training enterprise at Fort Rucker, Alabama. The R66, a single-turbine light helicopter, will replace the more automated Airbus UH-72A Lakota, as the Army seeks to return to fundamental flying skills to reduce accidents. The program aims to train 800-1,500 pilots annually over a potential 26-year contract. M1 will provide aircraft, maintenance, simulators, and instruction, while the Army retains control of standards and safety. The R66 defeated Bell's Model 505 in the selection process.