MD Helicopters (McDonnell Douglas) 520N
NOTAR-equipped light single-engine helicopter focused on reduced tail-rotor hazards and compact utility missions.
The MD 520N is a small, high-visibility turbine helicopter that replaces a conventional tail rotor with the NOTAR (NO TAil Rotor) system, using a variable-pitch fan and directed airflow for anti-torque and yaw control. It is typically selected for missions where rotor clearance, ground safety, and operations in confined areas are key considerations, while still keeping footprint and operating complexity in the light-single class.
Currently for saleMission Alignment
In day-to-day use, the 520N tends to fit short-to-medium legs, frequent landings, and operations around people, vehicles, and obstacles—scenarios where NOTAR’s absence of an exposed tail rotor can reduce risk and simplify ground handling procedures. Buyers planning routine multi-hour legs, regular high-density passenger carriage, or demanding external-load work generally evaluate larger airframes with more cabin volume and power margin.
Best For
Not Ideal For
Cabin Experience
Cabin experience is functional and mission-driven. The cockpit emphasizes visibility and access to controls, with seating and interiors varying by operator mission (training, law enforcement, utility). Space is typical of the light-single category—practical for a small passenger count and mission equipment, but not oriented to comfort on longer legs.
Configuration Notes
Technology & Systems
The defining technology choice is the NOTAR anti-torque system, intended to improve safety around the tail and change the maintenance profile compared with a tail rotor drivetrain. The aircraft remains a conventional light-turbine helicopter in most other respects, with avionics and mission equipment varying widely by year, operator, and retrofit level.
Buyer Checks
Specifications
Range
210 nm from New York
MD Helicopters (McDonnell Douglas) 520N — 210 nm range
Operating Profile
Typical operations emphasize quick start-to-mission cycles, repetitive patterns (patrol/training), and frequent landings in constrained environments. Planning considerations center on performance margin (especially at altitude and temperature), payload with fuel, and how installed mission equipment affects useful load and endurance.
Key Triggers
Maintenance & Ownership
Maintenance is influenced by both standard light-turbine helicopter needs (engine programs, airframe inspections, dynamic components) and the additional NOTAR-specific systems. Parts availability, support, and technician familiarity with NOTAR can matter as much as the basic inspection schedule.