MD Helicopters 500ETurbine Helicopter

The MD Helicopters 500E represents a new, fully integrated turbine helicopter platform designed for versatile mission profiles including law enforcement, utility, and VIP transport. This model features a five-blade main rotor system and offers a choice between two Rolls-Royce turbine engines: the standard 420-shp 250-C20B or the optional 450-shp 250-C20R for enhanced hot-weather performance. With a maximum gross weight of 3,000 lbs internally (3,550 lbs externally) and a useful load of 1,379 lbs, the 500E delivers a 152-knot VNE speed, 280 NM range, and operational ceilings up to 16,000 ft density altitude.

The airframe incorporates extended landing gear with carbide skid shoes, rapid door removal hinges, and an energy-absorbing structure with 20g-rated occupant seat crush boxes. The advanced Garmin G500H TXi flight deck includes dual GDU 700P touchscreen displays, GTN 650Xi GPS/NAV/COMM, GTX 345R ADS-B transponder, and integrated Helicopter Synthetic Vision (HSVT) and Terrain Awareness (HTAWS) systems. Mission flexibility is further enhanced by options like emergency water floats, external cargo hooks, FLIR camera systems, and NVG-compatible lighting. The cabin offers configurable seating with harness restraints, USB charging ports, and soundproofing, while the Rolls-Royce powerplant benefits from an inlet barrier filter, automatic re-ignition, and crash-resistant fuel system.