Md Helicopters 520N vs Bell 206 JetRanger
The MD 520N (NOTAR — no tail rotor) and Bell 206 compare NOTAR safety/quietness against the conventional turbine benchmark.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | MD Helicopters 520N | Bell 206 JetRanger |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $650,000 | $207,158 – $742,080 |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Single Turbine Helicopter |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 5 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 125 kts (232 km/h) | — |
Which Should You Buy: MD Helicopters 520N or Bell 206 JetRanger?
Bottom line: Choose the MD 520N for NOTAR — no exposed tail rotor (safety in tight/urban sites) and low noise; choose the Bell 206 for lower cost and the largest support network. 520N = NOTAR/quiet/urban; 206 = economy/support. ================================================================ # MD 902 Explorer — NOTAR twin ================================================================
Pick the 520N if…
Pick the 206 JetRanger if…
- Budget matters — from $207,158 vs $650,000, you save ~$442,842.
- More inventory — 77 listings vs 2.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, MD Helicopters 520N or Bell 206 JetRanger?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 520N cruises at 125 kts.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 206 JetRanger: from $525,870.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between MD Helicopters 520N and Bell 206 JetRanger?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
520N: 5 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data