MD Helicopters Introduces New Light-Single-Engine Helicopter

March 10, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1773158520207-3143

Light Single Engine Helicopter with Enhanced Performance and Avionics

MD Helicopters has introduced the MD 564, a light-single-engine helicopter with enhanced performance and avionics capability. The aircraft combines a six-blade main rotor, four-blade tail rotor, and Rolls-Royce engine, offering improved internal and external payload capacity. With four-hour endurance and more than 400 nautical miles of range, the MD 564 is designed for demanding utility missions. Garmin G500TXi avionics suite provides IFR capability. The company aims to deliver operating costs that could run 30% to 40% lower than competing aircraft.

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Key Takeaways

The MD 564 combines a six-blade main rotor, four-blade tail rotor, and Rolls-Royce engine.
650-pound increase in internal payload and 750-pound increase in external payload over legacy 500-series aircraft.
Four-hour endurance with more than 400 nautical miles of range.
Hover-out-of-ground-effect capability at maximum takeoff weight up to 14,500 feet.

MD Helicopters Rolls-Royce Garmin

Strategic Implications

This new helicopter may indicate MD Helicopters’ focus on expanding its product line and targeting operators seeking higher-performance capabilities. The avionics suite suggests a broader appeal beyond traditional utility missions.