
MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) presented the long standing E-to-F program for MD500E to MD530F helicopters conversion.
Following a strict FAA-approved process, the E-to-F conversion upgrades an MD500E helicopter to an FAA-certified MD530F model. The robust conversion increases the aircraft’s gross weight to 3,350 lbs., improves its flight characteristics in confined areas, and boosts cruise speed, all for comparatively low direct operating costs (DOC).
During HAI HELI-EXPO exclusively, 2022 pricing was locked for the conversion and delivered a 5% parts and service credit off base price. To take advantage of the offer, customers must execute a service agreement by Sept. 1, 2022. Credit is issued when the customer takes possession of the completed conversion and must be used within 12 months of issuance. All other terms and conditions of the conversion agreement apply.
“An outstanding resource for E-model operators who want to affordably upgrade their aircraft’s capabilities with minimal down time, the E-to-F conversion program is an extremely valuable MD-exclusive service,” says Nick Nenadovic, Vice President of Aftermarket and Customer Support at MD Helicopters. “After conversion, customers receive a like-new aircraft with increased power and capability without the investment required for a new aircraft.”
MD Helicopters’ exclusive E-to-F, MD500E to MD530F 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 250-C30
- Replacement of the main rotor and tail rotor blades
- Upgraded F model main rotor gearbox (MGB)
- Upgraded tail rotor drive shaft
MD Helicopters MD500E

The MD500E helicopter delivers the highest speed, payload and productivity in its class. With a five-bladed main rotor and your choice of a 420-shp Rolls-Royce 250-C20B or 450-shp Rolls-Royce 250-C20R turbine engine, the MD 500E offers unparalleled versatility for the broadest range of customer-defined missions.
MAX GROSS WEIGHT, INTERNAL: | 3,000 LB |
MAX GROSS WEIGHT, EXTERNAL: | 3,550 LB |
USEFUL LOAD, INTERNAL: | 1,519 LB |
HOVER-IN GROUND EFFECT: | 8,500 FT |
HOVER-OUT GROUND EFFECT: | 6,000 FT |
MAX CRUISE SPEED: | 135 KTS |
MAX OPERATING ALTITUDE: | 16,000 FT |
RANGE: | 290 NM |
MD Helicopters MD530F

The MD530F is engineered to meet your requirements for hot-day, high-altitude operation. Equipped with the 650 shp Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine, the MD530F operates more effectively in hot, high environments than other helicopters in its class. It offers the performance you need at a lower cost of ownership.
MAX GROSS WEIGHT, INTERNAL: | 3,350 LB |
MAX GROSS WEIGHT, EXTERNAL: | 3,750 LB |
USEFUL LOAD: | 1,627 LB |
HOVER-IN GROUND EFFECT: | 14,280 FT |
HOVER-OUT GROUND EFFECT: | 11,140 FT |
MAX CRUISE SPEED: | 134 KTS |
MAX OPERATING ALTITUDE: | 16,000 FT |
RANGE: | 260 NM |
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