The Helicopter Disruptor: How Robinson is Redefining Vertical Lift w/ David Smith

The helicopter industry is known for sky-high complexity, but one company is proving that innovation doesn’t have to be complicated.

For too long, the industry has settled for slow, costly, and overly complex machines, pushed forward by legacy manufacturers who cater to large government contracts and niche elite buyers. 

But there’s a shift happening now, one that puts simplicity, reliability, and affordability at the center of innovation.

At the forefront of this transformation is Robinson Helicopter, a company best known for its rugged, no-nonsense civilian aircraft. 

Under the leadership of CEO David Smith, Robinson is entering a new era, one that’s not only challenging the norms of vertical lift but redefining what modern utility helicopters can look like with the launch of the new R88.

David isn’t just an industry veteran, he’s a rare blend of engineering insight, strategic leadership, and real-world pragmatism. 

With roots at Bell Helicopter and MIT, and deep experience in clean-sheet design and simulation technology, he’s now steering Robinson into ambitious territory, from launching new aircraft to manufacturing drones and reshaping workforce culture.

In this episode, David gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the launch of the R88, his approach to leading a legacy brand into the future, and how Robinson is quietly disrupting both the manned and unmanned aircraft space.

You’ll also learn:

• Why helicopter designs have remained stagnant for so long
• How Robinson plans to compete on simplicity, reliability, and price
• What makes the R88 a game-changer for EMS, utility, and tourism missions
• Why vertical integration and in-house manufacturing are Robinson’s biggest strengths
• How Robinson is entering the drone market (and what makes their design better than quadcopters)
• What it takes to build a high-performance, high-loyalty workforce in aerospace today

 

Guest Bio

David Smith is the president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. He leads employees as they develop and produce cost-effective, efficient, and safe helicopters for customers all over the world. David loves helping teams grow and improve performance in engineering and manufacturing companies, especially in the aerospace industry, where he has a proven track record of delivering results and driving innovation. Prior to joining Robinson Helicopter Company in March 2023, David held leadership positions at Bell Flight and TRU Simulation + Training, where he successfully executed cost restructuring measures, improved business performance, and helped to drive the next generation of manufacturing operations. Dave is passionate about supporting non-profits and charitable efforts to help our veterans, develop tomorrow's leaders, and grow the American manufacturing industrial base. Connect with David on LinkedIn. 

 

About Your Host

Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association. 

 

For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/. 

To learn more about Craig Picken, visit https://craigpicken.com/. 

 

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