Bell 505 Jetranger X vs Md Helicopters Md 520n vs Md Helicopters Md 600n
The Bell 505 JetRanger X is a light single-engine helicopter in the entry-level/utility segment, typically configured for one pilot plus up to four passengers. Its range is generally in the mid-hundreds of nautical miles depending on fuel, payload, and reserves, making it well suited to short-to-medium missions such as training, patrol, and general utility. The MD Helicopters MD 520N is also a light single, but it emphasizes agility and the NOTAR (no tail rotor) anti-torque system for reduced tail-rotor hazards and a distinct noise profile. It commonly carries one pilot plus up to four passengers, with range also typically in the mid-hundreds of nautical miles, varying by configuration and mission profile. The MD Helicopters MD 600N steps up into a larger light/medium single category, again using NOTAR, and is generally aimed at higher payload and cabin volume. It is commonly configured for one pilot plus up to five or six passengers, and it usually offers a longer practical range than the 520N and often competitive range versus a 505, depending on tanks, payload, and reserves.
| Spec | Bell 505 JetRanger X | MD Helicopters MD 520N | MD Helicopters MD 600N |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 3.53 | $ 3.38 | $ 4.06 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 5 | 4 | 6 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | Bell | MD Helicotpers | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | 505 JetRanger X | MD 520N | MD 600N |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 306 | 210 | 341 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.71 | $ 0.85 | $ 0.68 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 1500 | 1764 | 2000 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 3 | 2 | 5 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 441 | $ 416 | $ 545 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000H | Gyro / Analog | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 125 | 123 | 134 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $1,445,000 | $ 2,900,000 | $3,400,000 |
| Max Cabin Seats | — | 3 | 5 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 5 | 4 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 3 | 2 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | — | 3 | 5 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Dual-Channel | No | No |
| Model | Arrius 2R | 250-C20R | 250-C47 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 3500 | 2000 |
| Horsepower | 505 | 450 | 715 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 32.3 | 35 | 41 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 84.85 | 64 | 118 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Width (ft) | 6.51 | — | — |
| Length (ft) | 42.48 | 31.4 | 36.9 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.66 | — | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 2.75 | — | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 7.17 | — | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 10.65 | 8.8 | 9.7 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 37 | 27.4 | 27.5 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 137 | — | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 18 | — | — |