MD 530F

The high-altitude helicopter built for demanding environments.

Overview

MD Helicopters United States 2000–Present $2.4 million

The MD 530F is a high-performance variant of the MD 500 family. Designed for operations in hot and high conditions, it emphasizes power and agility. The aircraft serves military and civil operators.

Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Allison 250-C30 Turboshaft
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
650 shp · 485 kW
Avionics
Garmin Avionics
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
5
Crew
—
Cabin width
4 ft 4 in  ·  1.31 m
Cabin height
5 ft 0 in  ·  1.52 m
Cabin length
8 ft 0 in  ·  2.44 m
Exterior length
32 ft 7 in  ·  9.94 m
Tail height
8 ft 9 in  ·  2.67 m
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
27 ft 4 in  ·  8.33 m
Baggage volume
11 ft³  ·  0.3 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
3,100 lb  ·  1,400 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,600 lb  ·  750 kg
Fuel capacity
110 gal · 400 L · 300 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
135 kt  ·  155 mph  ·  250 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
232 nm  ·  270 mi  ·  430 km
Fuel burn
4.19 nm/gal  ·  2.05 km/L
Ceiling
18,700 ft  ·  5,700 m
Rate of climb
2,070 ft/min  ·  11 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
(/) tap to zoom
(/)
MD Helicopters MD-530F Lifter

Operational Context

MD 530F — light utility helicopter

The 530F entered service in the 1980s as an enhanced version of earlier MD 500 models. It features upgraded rotor systems and engine performance. The helicopter is optimized for mountainous operations.

A single turboshaft engine producing approximately 650 shaft horsepower powers the aircraft. Cruise speed approaches 135 knots (250 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 3,100 pounds (1,406 kg).

The MD 530F has been widely exported and used in light attack and utility roles. Its agility and climb capability remain key strengths. The aircraft continues in production.