McDONNELL DOUGLAS Helicopter Systems (MDHS) has accelerated development of the MD600N (formerly the MD630N) to bring forward US certification to the third quarter of 1996. Several design changes have been announced by the Mesa, Arizona-based company,, including a switch to a more powerful, digitally controlled, version of the Allison 250 turbo-shaft.
The single 590kW (790shp) Allison 250-C47 will be de-rated to 450kW for the MD600N - a stretched development of the MD530N light helicopter. The seven- to eight-seat MD600N features MDHS' NOTAR no-tail-rotor anti-torque system.
Formal go-ahead for the changes was given in March, and all 1996 production has been sold, says MDHS, which will soon be accepting orders for 1997 delivery.
Other changes include redesign of the interior to increase aft-cabin space by moving an under-seat fuel cell below floor level.
Fuel capacity and aircraft range are unchanged. A redesigned rear door will improve accessibility, and the cabin has a longer flat floor to increase cargo capacity, MDHS says.
Source: Flight International
