Wilson Construction, headquartered in Aurora, Oregon, has taken delivery of an MD Helicopters MD 530F. An operator of MDHI-brand helicopters since 2005, the firm has upgraded one of its MD 500E helicopters to an FAA-certified MD 530F. The overhaul took place at MD Helicopters' Mesa, Arizona, manufacturing and completions centre.

“The simplicity and reliability of our MD 500-series aircraft is really the backbone of our nationwide operations,” says Ron Stewart, director of operations at Wilson Construction. “Often tasked to work in extreme environments, the conversion of this aircraft to a truly like-new MD 530F will allow us to maintain our high level of availability and outstanding safety margins even in warmer, higher elevation environments, meeting customer requirements more effectively and efficiently than ever before.”

Nick Nenadovic, VP of aftermarket and customer support for MD Helicopters, adds: “The E-to-F conversion programme is one of our most popular and valuable aftermarket services. This unique-to-MD Helicopters capability is an outstanding resource for E-model operators who want to affordably upgrade the capability of their aircraft with minimal downtime.”

For over 20 years, Wilson Construction says it has delivered safe and efficient helicopter operations in the electric utility construction industry. With a fleet of seven helicopters, including six MDHI aircraft, its veteran pilots complete complex jobs safely and efficiently in sometimes extreme conditions. Upon completion of this conversion, the rotorcraft fleet will include three MD 500E and three MD 530F helicopters.

The E-to-F conversion includes an engine upgrade from the Rolls Royce 250-C20B to the more powerful RR250-C30, replacement of the main rotor and tail rotor blades, upgraded F model main rotor gearbox and an Onboard Systems dual cargo hook. Additionally, MDHI will provide an overall interior and exterior refresh including a new three-colour paint scheme, updated interior paint, new seating and updated flight controls.