MD Helicopters has announced changes to its authorised service centre (ASC) and parts retailer (PR) agreements, with the aim to help ASCs and PRs attract and retain more local MD operators and provide better service.

Included in the changes are adjustments to the network to help ensure that MD service centres are geographically aligned with the fielded fleet. MD will also stop selling direct to most parties other than ASCs, PRs and select fleet customers in an effort to funnel more business through the authorised MD network.

MDH is also actively working to transform the type certificate-based MD 500E to MD 530F upgrade to a Technical Bulletin. This move will allow qualified and approved MD authorised service centres to perform the upgrade around the world. Currently, the popular E-to-F upgrade must be performed at the OEM's Mesa, Arizona facility, under the FAA-approved quality system, which is often financially and logistically challenging for many operators around the globe.

“MD Helicopters customers deserve the highest level of support in ways that best serve them where they operate,” says MD Helicopter president and CEO Brad Pedersen. “These enhancements are expected to level the playing field across our network and promote regional and local service.”