Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, announced that the RR300 engine has received certification from the Russian airworthiness authority IAC-AR, enabling flight operations for the Robinson R66 helicopter and opening up future growth for the versatile aircraft.

The RR300 engine, which powers Robinson's first gas-turbine aircraft, received flight certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration in October 2010 and is in service with the R66 globally.

Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Vice President- Civil Helicopters stated: "We have been working very closely with the Robinson team to achieve this key milestone and it is recognition of the safety and validity of the Rolls-Royce RR300 design. This important new certification will increase opportunities for R66 sales and growth across Russia."

The Robinson R66 Turbine features a two-bladed rotor system, an open interior cabin configuration with seating for five, air conditioning, increased reserve power and improved altitude performance up to 14,000 feet. Its cruise speed is approximately 120 knots.