Robinson Helicopter Company was founded in 1973 by Frank Robinson, whose vision was to produce the worlds highest quality, most reliable helicopters in the most efficient, cost effective way possible. Robinson introduced the two-place piston powered R22 in 1979. The affordable, personal-type design quickly made helicopter ownership accessible to a broader audience and changed the face of general aviation. Today, the companys top sellers are its R44 and R66 helicopters, respectively. To date, Robinson Helicopter Company has produced more than 13,000 helicopters. Robinson puts great emphasis on research and development, continually making improvements and offering new technology. Among its latest introductions are a cargo hook for the R66 and an autopilot designed specifically for helicopters. Robinson manufactures, assembles, inspects, and flight tests all of its helicopters at its Torrance, California factory. To ensure the highest quality and to maximize efficiency, the company manufactures a large percentage of parts in house and employs a highly skilled workforce. Robinson also offers monthly pilot safety and maintenance courses at the factory that attract a global audience.