Story ID: 
MD Helicopters Conversion Delivers More Power
By: Mark Huber
Caption: MD Helicopters has delivered an MD-530F as part of its E-to-F conversion program which boosts high and hot performance. 
Word Count: 190
MD Helicopters delivered an MD-530F model aircraft to High Line Helicopters (HLH) this month as part of the OEM’s FAA-approved E-to-F conversion program. Georgia-based HLH is a utility helicopter operator that provides powerline and aerial vegetation management services.

The conversion increases hot-and-high performance capability with elements that include an engine upgrade from the Rolls Royce 250-C20B to the more powerful RR250-C30, new main and tail rotor blades, an upgraded F model main rotor gearbox, and an enhanced tail rotor drive shaft. MD executives told AIN earlier this year that the conversion package was priced at approximately $1.2 million. 

Jason Lindauer, MD v-p of military and commercial sales, said the program “provides an affordable option for MD-500E operators to boost power, capabilities, and maximum gross weight” all for “a fraction of the cost of a new helicopter.”

In March, MD filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization and entered into an asset purchase agreement with a creditor consortium led by Bardin Hill and MBIA Insurance, which will acquire nearly all of the company’s assets and provide $60 million in new capital.