We’re now leasing Robinson R22 Beta IIs and R44 Ravens at lower cost and with more flexible terms.
View the Touchstone inventory of R44 and R22 helicopters available for lease.
The R22 – the world’s most popular entry-level helicopter for nearly two decades.
For those who expect excellence and appreciate value, at last there’s the R44 Raven.
Helicopter links, resources and everything the helicopter enthusiast and pilot might need.
Touchstone Helicopters – Unmatched Quality, Reliability, and Value
Since 2005, Touchstone Helicopters has been providing top-quality Robinson R22 Beta II, R44 Raven I & II, and R66 helicopters for lease. With nearly two decades of experience, our rigorous maintenance standards and commitment to delivering aircraft in superior condition set us apart as a trusted leader in the industry.
For reliability, safety, and return on investment, Touchstone Helicopters is the number one choice for Robinson helicopter leasing.
Buying is expensive
While Robinson helicopters are known for low operating costs, the purchase price continues to rise. As of January 1, 2025, a new R22 Beta II costs more than $375,000, and a new R44 Raven II is priced at over $615,000 – before optional equipment, taxes, shipping/crating, dealer fees, and the cost of long factory waitlists.
Financing is Difficult
Banks now require down payments of 20–25%, and in many cases remain reluctant to lend on Robinson Helicopters – regardless of the borrower’s creditworthiness or the size of the down payment.
Leasing Eliminates Large Upfront Costs
Purchasing and financing an R22 Beta II typically requires more than $75,000 down, while an R44 Raven II often requires over $130,000. By contrast, you can lease the same aircraft from Touchstone Helicopters for as little as $7,000 down on an R22 or $17,000 down on an R44.
Keep Your Capital Working for You
Don’t tie up your cash in aircraft ownership. Leasing allows you to grow your business while keeping capital available for advertising, expansion, and other investments that deliver stronger returns.
Avoid Taxable Income Recapture
Owners of fully depreciated aircraft often face a surprise tax bill when selling – the IRS treats the entire sale price as ordinary income, clawing back years of depreciation deductions. Leasing avoids this issue altogether, with lease payments generally qualifying as 100% deductible business expenses and no recapture at sale.
Save on Sales Tax
Buying a helicopter usually requires paying state sales tax in full upfront—which can exceed $60,000 on an R44 Raven II. With leasing, you only pay tax on your monthly lease payments, spreading out the cost and often saving tens of thousands of dollars. In some states, lease payments may even be exempt from sales tax altogether.
Speak With Your Accountant
Every situation is unique. Consult your accountant to understand how leasing can benefit your business. The information above is provided for general purposes only and is not tax advice.
Discover how leasing a Robinson R22 Beta II, R44 Raven, or R66 Turbine can be the smartest move for your flight school, commercial operation, business, or personal flying.
Call us today at (323) 376-1969 or email info@touchstonehelicopters.com.
John Ward Nielsen, Touchstone Helicopters
The R22 – the world’s most popular entry-level helicopter for nearly two decades.
For those who expect excellence and appreciate value, at last there’s the R44 Raven.
We’re now leasing Robinson R22 Beta IIs and R44 Ravens at lower cost and with more flexible terms.
View the Touchstone inventory of R44 and R22 helicopters available for lease.