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Md Helicopters Md 600n vs Md Helicopters Md 902 Exlplorer

The MD Helicopters MD 600N and MD 902 Explorer are closely related light utility helicopters, but they differ in emphasis and typical mission fit. In category terms, both are light, turbine-powered multi-role helicopters, with the MD 600N generally positioned as a simple, lightweight utility aircraft, while the MD 902 is commonly framed as a more capable light twin-engine platform optimized for higher-demand roles such as public safety, EMS support, and offshore or corporate work where redundancy is valued. On range, the MD 902 typically offers the longer operational range in standard configurations, helped by its twin-engine design and common mission equipment options that often align with extended, higher-tempo operations; the MD 600N’s range is competitive for short-to-medium utility missions but is more often optimized around cost-effective local and regional flying. For passenger capacity, the MD 600N is usually configured for a small group, often around five passengers plus a pilot, whereas the MD 902 generally accommodates more, commonly six or seven passengers plus a pilot, depending on interior layout and mission equipment.

SpecMD Helicopters MD 600NMD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 4.06$ 7.54
Min Crew11
Total Seats68
Flight RulesVFRVFR
ManufacturerMD HelicotpersMD Helicotpers
Aircraft NameMD 600NMD 902 Exlplorer
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)341317
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.68$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats56
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)20003125
Standard Cabin Seats56
Direct Operating Cost$ 545$ 988
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Gyro / AnalogGarmin G500H
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)134131
Base Aircraft Price (USD) $3,400,000 $7,250,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew11
Total Seats68
Max Cabin Seats56
Standard Cabin Seats56
Engine
FADECNoNo
Model250-C47PW207E
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)20004000
Horsepower715710
No. of Engines12
Fuel Burn (gph)4165
Fuel Capacity (gal)118159
Dimensions
Length (ft)36.940.6
Overall Height (ft)9.712
Rotor Diameter (ft)27.533.9