MD Helicopters Delivers MD 530F Conversion to High Line Helicopters

MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) announced it delivered an FAA-certified MD 530F model aircraft to High Line Helicopters (HLH) this month. This is part of MDHI’s successful FAA-approved E-to-F conversion program.

“The E-to-F conversion program provides an affordable option for MD 500E operators to boost power, capabilities, and maximum gross weight,” says Jason Lindauer, Vice President of Military and Commercial Sales. “The program transforms the MD 500E into a more powerful and capable type-certified MD 530F. The aircraft leaves Mesa with a zero-time engine for a fraction of the cost of a new helicopter saving operators time and money over buying new.”

HLH, a utility helicopter operator based in Georgia, chose to upgrade its MD 500E to an MD 530F for its increased power and capability potential for the company’s powerline and aerial vegetation management services. The updated aircraft now boasts a higher 3,350 lbs. gross weight, increased cruise speed, and improved flight characteristics in confined areas, all for comparatively low direct operating costs (DOC).

MD Helicopters’ exclusive FAA-approved E-to-F conversion program maintains essential safety margins while delivering increased hot-and-high performance capability. Enhancements to the aircraft include:

• Engine upgrade from the Rolls Royce 250-C20B to the more powerful RR250-C30

• New main and tail rotor blades

• Upgraded F model main rotor gearbox

• Upgraded tail rotor drive shaft

MD 500E customers considering modernization or performance upgrade options should contact MD Helicopters for more information on a partnership program to transform their aircraft.