MD Helicopters (MDHI) has received FAA approval to increase the MD530F’s mtow from 3,100 to 3,350 pounds. This increase affects only internal weight of the light turbine single helicopter; mtow with external loads remains at 3,750 pounds.
The mtow upgrade kit from MDHI includes new rotorcraft flight manual supplement assigned to the aircraft serial number and a "VNE IAS" placard reflecting the increased mtow for display in the aircraft.
MDHI submitted certification paperwork for the increase to the FAA in January 2020 after flight testing concluded that the aircraft met all performance and handling, acoustic, flight load, and height velocity tests, which were performed at different pressure altitudes, temperatures, and wind conditions.
“When our customers asked for more versatility in this workhorse, we listened,” said Nick Nenadovic, the manufacturer's vice president, aftermarket and customer support. “The MD 530F is a favorite among law enforcement agencies and utility operators around the world thanks to its unrivaled maneuverability and hot-high capabilities.”