MD 500E

The agile light helicopter built for utility and law enforcement.

Overview

MD Helicopters United States ICAO: H500 1985–Present Active $1.9 million

The MD 500E is a civil variant of the Hughes 500 series introduced in the 1980s. Known for its compact size and maneuverability, it supports utility and patrol missions. The aircraft remains popular worldwide.

Live Fleet Activity (H500)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Allison 250-C20 Turboshaft
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
420 shp · 313 kW
Avionics
Garmin Avionics
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
5
Crew
—
Cabin width
4 ft 5 in  ·  1.34 m
Cabin height
5 ft 0 in  ·  1.52 m
Cabin length
8 ft 0 in  ·  2.44 m
Exterior length
30 ft 10 in  ·  9.40 m
Tail height
8 ft 10 in  ·  2.70 m
Fuselage diameter
4 ft 11 in  ·  1.50 m
Wing span
26 ft 5 in  ·  8.06 m
Baggage volume
35 ft³  ·  1.0 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
3,000 lb  ·  1,350 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,500 lb  ·  700 kg
Fuel capacity
60 gal · 200 L · 200 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
135 kt  ·  155 mph  ·  250 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
290 nm  ·  330 mi  ·  540 km
Fuel burn
5.90 nm/gal  ·  2.89 km/L
Ceiling
16,000 ft  ·  4,900 m
Rate of climb
1,700 ft/min  ·  9 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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MD Helicopters MD-500E

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Operational Context

MD 500E — light utility helicopter

The 500E entered service in the early 1980s as a development of earlier Hughes designs. It features a five-blade main rotor and skid landing gear. The helicopter was engineered for agility and reliability.

A single turboshaft engine producing approximately 420 shaft horsepower powers the aircraft. Cruise speed approaches 135 knots (250 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 3,000 pounds (1,361 kg).

The 500E is widely used in law enforcement, training, and aerial observation roles. Its compact dimensions suit urban operations. Production continues in updated variants.