MD500

• Single-engined turbine helicopter • Top seller • Civil OH-6

T

he McDonnell Douglas MD500 is a ‘great’ of helicopter aviation – renowned for its economy, reliability and performance. The manufacturer tells cost-conscious operators that this aircraft offers the highest productivity per unit of any machine in its class. Whether supplying offshore oil platforms, helping the police in law enforcement or evacuating the sick by air, the MD500 is a bargain for its owners and a joy for pilots to fly.

Five-blade rotor ►

The Hughes 5OOD introduced a tivo-blado rotor of smaller diameter to absorb the increased engino power.

T Small cabin

Tho original OH-6A was intended to carry just two crow: the rear cargo bay had two folding seats. Therefore, SOODs had a fairly small cabin.

T Police patroller

This MD500E belongs to the Washington DC Metropolitan Police. It camos a powerful searchlight and additional antennas for a comprehensive radio fit.

FACTS AND

> MDSOO-s wore built by RACA (Argentina). Breda Nardi (Italy). Korean Air and Kawasaki (Japan).

> Hughes was taken over in 1984: Hughes 500s became MD500s in August 1985.

> The 500 was the basis for NOTAR. the

first helicoptor sold without a tail rotor.

FIGURES

► First flown In September carries 240 I (62 gal.) fuel 231 I (60 gal.) in the military OH-6.

> An MD500 has been used by NASA to

perform tests in engine and rotor noise.

>• A military vorsion of the 5000 called the 500MD Defender has been sold widely.