New Upgrade Offers 300 Lbs Payload, 15% more SHP, and 15% TOT Margins

MD Helicopters expects certification on a new STC for the MD 520N Helicopter by the end of 2023, adding a good deal of power and high-altitude performance.

The STC will see the installation of the Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine in the N-model 520, adding 300 pounds of payload, 15% more shaft horsepower on a hot day, a 15% increase of TOT margins, and better overall maintenance costs over the life of the aircraft. Once approved, the STC kit will be available at MDH Service Centers, with the upgrades taking about 2 months to reach completion on each aircraft.

“MDH’s new leadership made a commitment to strengthen and support our proven line of highly revered helicopters and this is another delivery on that promise,” said MD Helicopter president and CEO Brad Pedersen. “There are 85 MD 520N helicopters flying today. This engine upgrade offers an improvement for those aircraft by significantly boosting power, performance, and cost savings for MD 520N NOTAR operators. We are grateful to Columbia Helicopters for their partnership in completing the STC process and look forward to providing upgrades before the end of the year.”

FMI: www.mdhelicopters.com