Press Release
Issued by MD Helicopters.
March 5, 2013
MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company and leading manufacturer of commercial, air-rescue, military and law enforcement helicopters, announced the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the first flight of the legendary MD Explorer aircraft. The MD Explorer 900 completed its maiden flight Dec. 18, 1992, setting extraordinary benchmarks for performance and safety advancements, in the light twin category. The Explorer was the first production aircraft to incorporate the revolutionary NOTAR system in its initial design. With 20 years of mission proven flight, the advanced design of the airframe combined with NOTAR technology, still today, sets the bar for quiet operation, safety, versatility and low cost operation.
"Twenty years ago, the MD Explorer introduced the world to the future of rotorcraft design," said Ms. Lynn Tilton, ceo of MDHI. "Still today, the MD Explorer boasts the most advanced airframe in the light twin category, and the many significant advantages exclusive to NOTAR technology. On behalf of the men and women who worked tirelessly to develop this aircraft and our exceptional group of operators that depend on the Explorer 902 to accomplish critical missions, we celebrate this most important 20th anniversary milestone. "
Development of the aircraft began in January 1989, with McDonnell Douglas Helicopters. FAA certification for the Explorer 900 was granted in 1994, with JAA certification following shortly thereafter. In Sep.1997, the Explorer 902 was introduced with enhancements including an improved NOTAR inlet design and a more powerful stabilizer control system. The benefits of these changes included improved range and endurance, and an increased maximum takeoff weight. With exclusive NOTAR anti-torque technology, MD Helicopters, including the Explorer 902, continue to be the only helicopters in the world to operate without a tail rotor, an extraordinary safety and noise reduction advantage.
"This is only the beginning of our journey to introduce monumental new technologies that will set the standard for future rotorcraft safety and effectiveness," commented Ms. Tilton. "We look forward to serving our operators with new enhancements that keep MD Explorer at the forefront of technological innovation."
Visit MD Helicopters at booth N4121 at the 2013 HELI-EXPO, to meet with product specialists and to see this capable twin's wide-open cabin and advanced design.
