MD Helicopters takes orders for MD 564

Early production positions for the six-blade 500-series derivative are assigned in order of signed agreements and cleared deposits, ahead of FAA certification.

MD Helicopters has opened production reservations for the MD 564, the next evolution of its 500-series light single, with the MD 564 Early Production Position Reservation Programme available to operators worldwide.

The MD 564 is a 530F-derived airframe carrying a six-blade fully articulated main rotor, a four-blade tail rotor and the 600-shp Rolls-Royce 250-C47. Initial performance calculations include a 4,750 lb maximum gross weight with external load, a 2,500 lb cargo hook capacity, 414nm range with four-hour endurance on main and auxiliary fuel, hover out of ground effect at maximum take-off weight up to 14,500ft, a 27.5ft main rotor diameter and an operating cost of less than $900 per flight.

“Operators told us what they wanted: the 500-series they already trust, with more lift and more margin,” says Ryan Weeks, chief executive officer of MD Helicopters. “The MD 564 is that aircraft.”

The aircraft is aimed at the work operators currently split across two fleets: utility line construction and patrol, wildland fire support, law enforcement, search and rescue and remote cargo.

“Long-light performance at short-light operating cost changes what one airframe can cover on a certificate,” says Luis Trejo, senior director of business development.

Under the reservation programme, production positions are assigned in the order signed agreements and cleared deposits are received. Deposits are fully refundable until a purchase agreement is executed. Following FAA certification, position holders convert their reservations to purchase agreements in sequence.