I debated this question over the last few months. In short, the mission doesn't require a turbine and will only last 5-6 years. Over next few years I believe, perhaps incorrectly, that lots of older B206s will hit the North American market as folks upgrade to the 505X. The fixed wing market experienced a similar phenomenon when the Columbia300/400 and SR22s hit the market in 2004-5 and suddenly market interest in BE58/C421 fell off a cliff.
I think I can safely navigate the MR issues for 200-300 hours then grab a B206 at an advantageous price for second half of the contract.
Chiropracter LOL
