MD Helicopters 500E – Best light helicopter for special tasks

The MD Helicopters 500E is a five-seat light turbine helicopter that combines exceptional maneuverability, high performance and reliability for any mission. Equipped with a five-blade main rotor and a 420 hp Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engine (or optional 250-C20R with 450 hp), it achieves a cruising speed of 135 knots (249 km/h) and a range of up to 290 nautical miles (537 km). Internal payload capacity is as high as 689 kg, and a modern glass cockpit with Garmin G500H TXi avionics provides intuitive controls and excellent visibility. The MD Helicopters 500E is the ideal choice for law enforcement, emergency services, commercial operators and private users who demand superior quality and low operating costs.

Key features of MD Helicopters 500E

• Five-blade, fully articulated main rotor – guarantees stability and precise control

• Rolls-Royce 250-C20B/C20R engine – proven reliability, low combustion, 420-450 horsepower

• Modern glass cockpit with Garmin G500H TXi – intuitive operation, clear displays, advanced warning systems

• Energy-intensive hull design – reinforced structure, crumple zones, 20g shock resistance

• Large cabin 2+3 – comfort for pilot and four passengers, panoramic visibility

• Low operating costs – simple maintenance, high availability of parts

• Versatility – quick reconfiguration for patrol, transport, rescue, training and VIP missions

Technical data and performance

MD Helicopters 500E – technological advantages

The MD Helicopters 500E is distinguished by its energy-intensive fuselage and landing gear design, which ensures the safety of the crew even in difficult emergency situations. The bubble canopy cabin offers unobstructed visibility, and the state-of-the-art avionics allow efficient mission performance both day and night. A simple mechanical system and a proven engine guarantee high operational availability and low maintenance costs.

Applications and configurations

The MD Helicopters 500E is a helicopter ideal for a wide range of applications:

• Patrol and police flights – quiet operation, maneuverability, ability to mount cameras and searchlights

• Emergency medical services (EMS) – quick reconfiguration of the cabin, transport of medical equipment

• Transportation and work at height – lifting capacity up to 689 kg, ability to suspend loads, infrastructure inspections

• Pilot training – excellent visibility, dual control, safety

• Commercial applications – scenic flights, aerial photography, crop monitoring, firefighting

MD Helicopters 500E comparison with competitors

The MD Helicopters 500E offers the highest speed and payload in its class, with low operating costs and exceptional versatility.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main advantages of MD Helicopters 500E?
Exceptional maneuverability, high cruising speed, low operating costs, ease of operation and wide configuration options for various missions.

Can MD Helicopters 500E be easily reconfigured?
Yes, the cabin allows for a quick transition from passenger to transport, patrol, rescue or training configurations.

What are the operating costs of MD Helicopters 500E?
Hourly costs are lower than most competing models, and the simplicity of the design ensures high reliability and parts availability.

Pricing, costs, sales, rentals

• Price of a new MD Helicopters 500E: from $1,900,000 (depending on configuration and equipment)

• Used unit price: from $1,800,000 (depending on condition, vintage and airframe)

• Operating cost: $2,100 to $2,200 per flight hour, depending on operating intensity and region

• Lease or rental option: available from selected MD Helicopters operators and representatives

• Availability of parts and service: global network of authorized service centers, fast availability of spare parts

Summary

The MD Helicopters 500E is a versatile, fast and reliable helicopter that will perform well in any mission – from patrol to rescue to transport and training. With its state-of-the-art avionics, powerful engine and robust design, it is a leader in its class in terms of performance, safety and operating costs. If you’re looking for a helicopter for special tasks or daily operations in demanding environments, the MD Helicopters 500E is the best choice in the lightweight multipurpose helicopter segment.