Aviation-Guide - Flipbook - Page 33
MD 500D
MD 500D
The 500D was originally manufactured by Hughes
Helicopters, which is now owned by McDonnell
Douglas Corporation. The civilian Model 500 is a
direct descendent of the U.S. Army’s OH-6A, originally
designed as an observation helicopter during the
Vietnam conflict. The egg shape design provided
excellent crash survival characteristics. The 500 model
is very maneuverable. They are used for a variety of
activities such as aerial reconnaissance, aerial ignition,
and wildland fire suppression.
IONS:
Cruise Speed:
144 mph
Gallon Capacity:
120
Manufacturer
Hughes Helicopters /
McDonnell Douglas
Type III
I Airtanker
Helicopter
There are several unique features of this aircraft. The
engine exhaust pipe is directly under the tailboom.
Seating in the 500D is extremely cramped. There
are three seats in the back, but they can actually
accommodate only two. Front seat passenger sits on
the right side instead of the left.
S P E C I F I C AT
Crew
Pilot
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