Bell 206 JetRanger vs Md Helicopters 520N
The MD 520N (NOTAR — no tail rotor) and Bell 206 compare NOTAR safety/quietness against the conventional turbine benchmark.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
Bell 206 JetRanger
- For sale now
- 87
- Median asking
- $477,396
- Range
- $305,050–$686,636
- Model years available
- 1966–2009
Md Helicopters 520N
- For sale now
- 2
- Model years available
- 2001–2002
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Bell 206 JetRanger | MD Helicopters 520N |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $305,050 – $686,636 | $650,000 |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Single Turbine Helicopter |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Horsepower | — | 420 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 120 kts (222 km/h) | 125 kts (232 km/h) |
| Range | 337 nm (624 km) | 264 nm (489 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) | 16,000 ft (4,877 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,200 lbs (1,452 kg) | 3,350 lbs (1,520 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,492 lbs (677 kg) | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 30.0 GPH (114 L/h) | 30.0 GPH (114 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Turboshaft | 1 x Turboshaft |
Which Should You Buy: Bell 206 JetRanger or MD Helicopters 520N?
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.
Pick the 206 JetRanger if…
- Budget matters — from $305,050 vs $650,000, you save ~$344,950.
- Longer range — 337 nm vs 264 nm.
- More inventory — 85 listings vs 2.
Pick the 520N if…
- Faster cruise — 125 kts vs 120 kts.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bell 206 JetRanger or MD Helicopters 520N?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 206 JetRanger cruises at 120 kts with 337 nm range.
The 520N cruises at 125 kts with 264 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 206 JetRanger: from $355,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 206 JetRanger and MD Helicopters 520N?
Cruise: 120 vs 125 kts.
Range: 337 vs 264 nm.
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?
206 JetRanger: 5 seats / 1,492 lb useful load.
520N: 5 seats / 1,500 lb useful load.
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 re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data