Press Release
Issued by MD Helicopters.
February 25, 2014
MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company and leading manufacturer of commercial, air-rescue, military and law enforcement helicopters, announced today that Shandong Qi Xiang General Aviation Ltd (Qi Xiang GA) and Avion Pacific Ltd (Avion), MD Helicopters' sales distributor in China, reached an agreement on an order for a new 500E helicopter. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery the second quarter of this year and will be used for agricultural spraying and utility work in the Shandong province, south of Beijing.
“We are honored that Shandong Qi Xiang General Aviation has selected the MD 500E, signifying our first sale of this renowned aircraft in China,” said Ms. Lynn Tilton, chief executive officer of MDHI. “The versatility and reliability of the MD 500E helicopter will provide Qi Xiang General Aviation with superior performance and safety during demanding conditions often experienced in utility and agricultural missions.”
The MD 500E provides the highest speed, payload and productivity in its class. Additionally, the aircraft's fully articulated rotor system allows for safer operation and increases operational availability through reduced susceptibility to wind conditions.
“The key features of the MD 500E, including the five-bladed main rotor and Rolls-Royce turbine engine, make it well suited for our company,” said Mr. Liu Haifeng, director of board, Qi Xiang GA. “We're confident this aircraft will further expand our business capabilities.”
The 500E aircraft will be equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology, including complete dual VHF capability, cargo hook provisions, and comfort windows. The cockpit configuration will feature a fully integrated cockpit with a Garmin suite of transponder, audio and COMM/NAV units. The aircraft will also operate with the standard left hand command which allows room for an extra passenger with the capacity to seat five.
With the proven reliability of the aircraft's derated turbine engine and superior fail-safe design, the 500E will provide superior performance to Qi Xiang GA for use in agricultural chemical spray applications and power-line survey missions. The sale marks the first market debut in China for the MD 500 series, which is comprised of the 500E, 520N and 530F model helicopters.
Visit MD Helicopters in booth 6922, hall D at the 2014 HELI-EXPO, to meet with product specialists and see the latest advancements in the world's leading aerial scout fleet.
