MD Helicopters Receives FAA Certification for MD 530N Upgrade

Upgrade Delivers Enhanced Power and Performance for NOTAR Operators

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:06pm

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An extreme close-up of the pebbled, textured surface of a helicopter rotor blade, the dramatic lighting revealing the intricate patterns and materials that make up this critical component of the aircraft.The MD 530N upgrade enhances the performance and capabilities of NOTAR helicopters, delivering increased power and safety for operators in challenging conditions.Mesa Today

MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH) 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.

Why it matters

The MD 530N 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. This upgrade will allow NOTAR operators to benefit from increased horsepower, enhanced hover performance, and improved safety margins in challenging conditions.

The details

The key benefits of the MD 530N upgrade include increased horsepower for improved payload and mission flexibility, enhanced hover performance and operational ceiling, and improved safety margins in high-temperature and high-altitude conditions. The upgrade also retains the NOTAR system's reduced noise and improved ground safety characteristics.

  • The FAA approved the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the MD 530N upgrade on April 13, 2026.

The players

MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH)

A manufacturer of high-performance rotorcraft solutions that support operators flying military, commercial, law enforcement, utility, and VIP mission profiles.

Rolls-Royce

The manufacturer of the 250-C20B and 250-C30 engines used in the MD 530N helicopter.

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What they’re saying

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

— Ryan Weeks, President and CEO of MD Helicopters

What’s next

MD Helicopters plans to make the MD 530N upgrade available immediately through its Authorized Service Center network. Operators can procure the Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine through an Authorized Service Center or supply their own eligible engine.

The takeaway

This upgrade from MD Helicopters demonstrates the company's commitment to innovation and customer-driven improvements, ensuring that its legacy aircraft remain capable, relevant, and mission-ready. The enhanced performance and safety features of the MD 530N upgrade will be particularly valuable for NOTAR operators in demanding environments.