MD Helicopters Helicopters
8 used MD Helicopters helicopters listings · $650,000–$3,650,000 · last refreshed 1 hour ago
About MD Helicopters Helicopter Company
MD Helicopters (formerly McDonnell Douglas Helicopters) produces the MD 500 series, MD 530F, MD 600N, and MD 902 Explorer from its Mesa, Arizona facility. The MD 500 series is one of the most versatile light turbine helicopter platforms in the world, serving law enforcement, EMS, utility, and military roles across more than 80 countries.
The NOTAR (No Tail Rotor) system, featured on the MD 520N, 600N, and 902, eliminates the conventional tail rotor for reduced noise and improved safety. Pre-owned MD 500E models trade for $400,000-900,000, while the MD 902 Explorer ranges from $1-3 million. Rolls-Royce M250 engine overhaul costs approximately $150,000-200,000. Buyers should verify compliance with all airworthiness directives and check the tail boom and NOTAR fan assembly condition.
MD Helicopters Helicopters for Sale
Price $650,000–$3,650,000
MD Helicopters Helicopters Price & Cost
How much does a MD Helicopters helicopter cost? Current pricing for used MD Helicopters helicopters (also known as MD Helicopters choppers or MD Helicopters helis) is broken down per model in the table below — covering acquisition price, hourly operating cost and overhaul cost.
The cost of a MD Helicopters helicopter depends on model, year, hours flown, avionics and condition. See operating costs and pre-buy checklist in the About section, or open a specific model page for a detailed price guide.
MD Helicopters Models
MD Helicopters Models — Specifications
Model spec| Model | Years | Seats | Cruise | Range | Useful load | Listings for sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980–1995 | 5 | 135 kts (250 km/h) | 232 nm (430 km) | 1,550 lbs (703 kg) | 10 | |
| 500 | — | 5 | 135 kts (250 km/h) | 232 nm (430 km) | 1,550 lbs (703 kg) | 9 |
| 500N | 1980–1995 | 1 | 4 kts (7 km/h) | — | — | 1 |
| 1982–now | 5 | 125 kts (232 km/h) | — | — | 2 | |
| 1994–now | 1 | 6 kts (11 km/h) | — | — | 5 |
Compare MD Helicopters Helicopters
vs. Competitors (2)
Showing the most-searched matchups. Open a model or family page for its full set of comparisons, or browse all comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions — MD Helicopters
What happened to MD Helicopters and are they still supported?
MD Helicopters filed for bankruptcy in 2022 after years of underinvestment, but has since been restructured and is actively rebuilding production and support capacity. The company continues to invest in aftermarket support, though supply chain shortages still hamper parts availability. For the NOTAR MD902, finding qualified suppliers remains particularly challenging. Buyers should verify current parts availability for their specific model before purchasing.
Is the MD 500 series a good helicopter to buy?
The MD 500 series (originally Hughes 500) is beloved for its simplicity, agility, responsiveness, and safety record. The compact single-engine design seats up to four passengers and excels in law enforcement, utility work, and light transport. The 500E is the most popular civilian variant. Since 1967, thousands have been built, creating a massive parts ecosystem. Planned upgrades from 2025 will bring older D- and E-models closer to the latest F-model standard.
MD 500 vs Robinson R44 vs Bell 407 — which light helicopter?
The MD 500 offers superior speed and agility, with a turbine engine that outperforms the R44's piston. However, the R44 is dramatically cheaper to buy and operate, making it the default choice for private owners. The Bell 407 provides more cabin space and payload at higher cost. For operators who need a fast, maneuverable turbine single at reasonable acquisition cost, used MD 500E/F models occupy a unique niche.
MD Helicopters Inventory by Country
| United States | 28 |
| United Kingdom | 4 |
| Philippines | 4 |
| New Zealand | 2 |
| Canada | 2 |
| Australia | 2 |
Recently Sold MD Helicopters
| 1998 600N | $899,000 |
| 1985 500E | $850,000 |
| 1996 MD900 | $565,747 |
| 1998 600N | $500,000 |
| 1996 MD900 | $550,000 |
| 1987 500E | $1,650,218 |