operating a MD500?
 

What is the latest on getting maintenance done on a MD500. The reputation is quite bad but did they get better?
Looking for a light turbine with lifting capability... any suggestions?

Appreciate your inputs!
flyheli

RE: MD500 Maintenance
 

We operate 5 MD500D's and 1 520N...and do all of the maintenance work on Columbus Police Department's fleet of 8? E models.

You either love them or you hate them...we love them.

PM if you'd like.

Many operators in the states are afraid to operate them. Lack of avaiable parts and support still tends to be an issue. This is really too bad as I love flying the angry egg. There are certain jobs that can be done none better than with the 500.

I think as a one ship 500 operator it would be tough.

At sea level to a couple of thousand the 500 will grunt. With minimal fuel ( and the thing aboslutly stripped out), I have picked around 1300lbs moving drills ( these are very short moves).
For bang for your buck for anything over a 900-1000 pounds and above 3000' , I would look at a As350 or a 206l4.

RB

I own a 530F undergoing a complete rebuild. Parts were tough but are getting better. A few critical parts are still in short supply. Pleanty of people to work on them.

If you believe in efficient markets, one thing is for sure and that is pricing on used 500's are up significantly in the last year. That might be an indication that the industry in general believes parts and support will become more available.