Helicopter Institute (HI) is introducing the TH-66 SAGE training platform into the U.S. Navy’s Contractor Operated Pilot Training – Rotary (COPT-R) programme in Fort Worth. HI is starting to phase out legacy aircraft, such as the Bell 206B3, and replacing them with the R66-based training due to the aircraft being more cost effective.
The TH-66 SAGE is configured for military flight instruction and is currently in service in the U.S. Army’s Part 141 Initial Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) demonstration in Marianna, Florida.
“We are incredibly proud to support the United States Navy’s helicopter training program under the Contractor Operated Pilot Training – Rotary (COPT-R) initiative through the implementation of the TH-66 SAGE,” said Randy Rowles, president of Helicopter Institute. “The robust nature and reliability of the R66 platform—already proven through the U.S. Army’s Part 141 IERW demonstration program—make the TH-66 SAGE an ideal aircraft for developing the next generation of military aviators. Together, we’re shaping the future of rotary-wing training and advancing safety, capability, and performance across the fleet.”
“As the only American-designed and manufactured helicopter in its class, the TH-66 SAGE embodies American-Made readiness,” commented David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Our relationship with Helicopter Institute demonstrates our ability to better prepare our nation’s pilots by delivering a modern, cost-effective platform that maximises critical training hours. With ready parts availability and support directly from our factory, we ensure exceptional operational efficiency, so our military students never spend one minute on the ground that is not necessary.”
Photo: Robinson Helicopter Company
