Robinson Helicopter Company has loaned a specially branded R22 to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) for an exhibition titled ‘Cowboys: History & Hollywood,’ which will run from 18 October 2025 to 19 April 2026.
The exhibition portrays the evolution of American cowboys from horseback to aerial work, and the R22 has been commonly used for ranching, agriculture, and utility work. Recently, Robinson celebrated the R22’s 50th anniversary and has grown its line of helicopters to include the R44, R66, and, most recently, the R88.
“The R22 has long been a reliable tool in the ranching and livestock world, enabling the hard work and ingenuity of the modern cowboy who flies a helicopter, rather than riding a horse,” said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Despite many who view Robinson helicopters as personal transportation, a large percentage of the nearly 15,000 aircraft we’ve produced right in Torrance, California, are workhorses built for tough jobs. Australia, South Texas, and South Africa are all markets where our customers use our helicopters for animal mustering and other agricultural work, and this exhibit allows us to share the stories of our owners and operators.”
“We’re grateful to Robinson Helicopter for creating and loaning to us this one-of-a-kind Ronald Reagan-branded helicopter, which captures President Reagan’s own cowboy spirit,” commented David Trulio, President and CEO of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. “Featuring a Robinson R22 helicopter within our ‘Cowboys: History & Hollywood’ exhibit illustrates how innovation advances the iconic tradition of cattle herding – reflecting the same resourcefulness and determination that President Reagan championed throughout his life.”
Photo: Robinson Helicopter Company
