MD Helicopters, LLC announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the MD 530N upgrade, providing a significant performance enhancement for NOTAR operators.

The upgrade enables operators to replace the Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engine with the more powerful Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine, significantly improving aircraft performance—particularly in hot-and-high environments where increased power and hover capability are critical.

Designed specifically for the global fleet of MD 500N aircraft, the upgrade addresses long-standing operator demand for improved performance while preserving the safety, simplicity, and low acoustic signature of the NOTAR (No Tail Rotor) system.

Key benefits of the MD 530N upgrade include:

• Increased horsepower for improved payload and mission flexibility
• Enhanced hover performance and operational ceiling
• Improved safety margins in high-temperature and high-altitude conditions
• Retention of the NOTAR system’s reduced noise and improved ground safety characteristics

“The MD 530N upgrade represents a major step forward for our NOTAR operators,” said Ryan Weeks, President and CEO of MD Helicopters. “This STC restores and enhances the performance operators expect, while preserving the unique advantages of the NOTAR system.”

As part of MD Helicopters’ broader Fielded Fleet Upgrade initiative, the MD 530N upgrade reflects a continued focus on customer-driven innovation, ensuring legacy aircraft remain capable, relevant, and mission-ready.

The MD 530N upgrade is available immediately through MD Helicopters’ Authorized Service Center network. The MSRP is $395,000 USD, including labor, and excludes the Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine.

Operators may procure an engine through an Authorized Service Center or supply their own eligible engine.
Removed components retain residual value, which may be recovered by the operator and can significantly offset the effective cost of the upgrade.