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.
| Spec | MD Helicopters MD 600N | MD Helicopters MD 902 Exlplorer |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.06 | $ 7.54 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | VFR |
| Manufacturer | MD Helicotpers | MD Helicotpers |
| Aircraft Name | MD 600N | MD 902 Exlplorer |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 341 | 317 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.68 | $ 0.94 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2000 | 3125 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 545 | $ 988 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Gyro / Analog | Garmin G500H |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 134 | 131 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,400,000 | $7,250,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 5 | 6 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | No | No |
| Model | 250-C47 | PW207E |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 2000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 715 | 710 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 41 | 65 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 118 | 159 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 36.9 | 40.6 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 9.7 | 12 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 27.5 | 33.9 |