Helicopter Finance

MD 500 / MD 600 Finance Guide

The MD 500 and MD 600 family are iconic light turbine helicopters with a global track record in filming, utility and law enforcement operations. Doulton Bridging Finance sources specialist finance for MD 500 series aircraft, including older variants that mainstream lenders may struggle to accommodate.

Finance guide updated October 2026. Rates and figures are illustrative; subject to lender credit assessment.

MD 500 / MD 600 - Aircraft Overview

The MD 500 series originated as the Hughes OH-6 Cayuse military light observation helicopter of the 1960s. Through successive commercial developments by Hughes Helicopters and then McDonnell Douglas (now MD Helicopters), the family grew to include the 500C, 500D, 500E, and later the 530 Lifter series. The MD 600N introduced the NOTAR anti-torque system - eliminating the conventional tail rotor - in the 1990s.

Key Specifications (MD 500E)

Engine: Allison 250-C20B turboshaft (420 shp)
Max cruise speed: 130 kts (241 km/h)
Range: approx. 430 km
MTOW: 1,360 kg
Seats: 1 pilot + 4 passengers (5 total)
Certification: FAA Part 27 / EASA validated

Typical Uses

Aerial filming and photography
Agricultural spraying
Law enforcement
Military training and utility
Private transport
Pipeline and powerline inspection

The MD 500 family is highly regarded for its power-to-weight ratio, agility and reliability. The Allison 250 engine family is one of the most widely supported turboshaft engines in the world, with a comprehensive global overhaul and parts network. This engine familiarity is positively viewed by lenders assessing the aircraft's long-term maintainability.

MD 500 Finance - What to Expect

The MD 500 is a niche market in the UK - fewer examples are on the G-register than in the US - but finance is available from specialist lenders who understand the type. Given the age of many examples, mainstream bank finance is less common; specialist funders are the more reliable route.

Typical Purchase Price

Pre-owned: £200,000–£650,000 MD 600N: towards upper end of range

Minimum Deposit

From 20% (e.g. £40k–£130k) 25–30% on older variants

Finance Rates Available

From 6.8% p.a. (HP on modern variants) 7.5%+ on older examples (specialist lenders)

Typical Term

3–5 years (HP) Shorter for older aircraft

For older MD 500s, the key to securing finance is a comprehensive maintenance pack - current CofA, recent overhaul records, and an independent pre-purchase survey from a recognised aviation surveyor. We help clients assemble the strongest possible application.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How much does an MD 500 cost to finance?

Pre-owned MD 500 series helicopters (MD 500C, 500D, 500E and MD 530) are typically priced between £200,000 and £650,000 in the UK and international markets, depending on year, hours, variant and avionics. Our worked example shows approximately £6,950/month on a £350k loan at 7.2% over 5 years.

What is the MD 500 used for?

The MD 500 (originally Hughes 500) is a highly versatile light turbine helicopter used across a wide range of roles including aerial photography, filming, agricultural spraying, utility, law enforcement, military training, and private transport. Its small footprint, agility, and characteristic egg-shaped pod-and-boom design make it ideal for tight operational environments.

Will lenders finance an older MD 500?

Some lenders, particularly specialist asset finance providers such as Pegasus Asset Finance, can consider older MD 500 variants - including 1970s and 1980s examples - provided the aircraft has a current Certificate of Airworthiness, is on an approved maintenance programme, and has had an independent appraisal. Mainstream banks are more restrictive on aircraft over 20 years old.

What is the difference between the MD 500 and MD 600 for finance?

The MD 600N is a six-blade NOTAR (no tail rotor) variant of the MD 500 family, offering a different operational profile with reduced noise and eliminated tail rotor risk. The MD 600N is generally priced higher than equivalent MD 500 variants and can attract more favourable finance terms due to its more modern design and better residual value profile.

Can I finance an MD 500 for film or TV work?

Yes. The MD 500 has a long history in aerial filming - its distinctive silhouette and agility make it a popular choice for both fixed-wing chasing and close-proximity filming. Lenders will typically require evidence of contract income or an established filming operation to support the lending case for a commercially operated aircraft.

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Finance taken for business purposes is not regulated by the FCA. Rates shown are indicative as at October 2026 and depend on credit profile, term, aircraft and deposit. We act as a credit broker, not a lender. Your aircraft may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments.