MDHI delivers new helicopters to Columbus Police Aviation Unit

MD Helicopters (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company, has delivered two new helicopters to the Columbus Police Aviation Unit, following conversion into FAA-certified MD 530F from MD 500E helicopters.

The delivered aircraft are the first two of the four converted helicopters undertaken by MDHI under its E-to-F Conversion programme.

Part of revitalisation of the Aviation Unit, the aircraft received an engine upgrade from the Rolls Royce 250-C20B to RR250-C30, replacement of the blades and stabilisers, as well as a Fargo Auxiliary Fuel Tank.

In addition, the aircraft received all necessary maintenance after thorough inspection.

The conversion is expected to enhance the hot-and-high performance capability of the aircraft apart from improving its operational range and flight time.

The MD 500E helicopter is used for airborne law enforcement, surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), homeland security and other public safety missions.

A member of the MD 500 series of light utility civilian and military helicopters, MD 530F can be easily reconfigured to function as a utility cargo carrier.

It also features extended landing gear, tinted canopy panels, fuselage hard points, two anti-collision lights, jacking fittings, rain gutter set and position lights.

Columbus Police Department helicopter unit lieutenant Greg Estep said: "The Columbus Police Aviation Section is looking forward to flying the newly converted aircraft.

"We believe that the new aircraft will allow us to more effectively support the officers of the Columbus Division of Police, and better serve the citizens of the City of Columbus."

The two remaining aircraft are expected to be delivered this month.

The new FAA-approved 369FF type certified unit will return to services this December.