1988 MD Helicopters MD-500 E for sale

1988 MD Helicopters MD-500 E

Single Turbine Helicopter

FOR SALE
$850,000
Seats 5
Reg # N500SL
Engine Rolls-Royce 250-C20B
Cruise 135 kts (250 km/h)
✓ Clean NTSB ✓ Verified recently

Aircraft Details

Seller reported

Avionics & Equipment

Garmin 340

Description

N500SL available for worldwide shipping. AT Aviation is delighted to offer this exceptional MD 500E, N500SL, now available from our UK showroom. A 1988 model, this helicopter presents a rare opportunity to own one of the most versatile and iconic machines in its class. This MD 500E benefits from an impressive maintenance pedigree, with a recent HMI on the Allison 250-C20 engine in 2024. With its outstanding performance and operational reliability, the MD500E continues to be a top choice for operators worldwide. Renowned for its agility and powerful performance, the MD 500E is built on the legacy of the original Hughes 500, evolving into a more powerful, efficient, and refined machine. Its five-blade main rotor provides superior lift and maneuverability, while the high tail boom and sleek fuselage make it ideal for confined area operations. Avionics include a Garmin 340 audio panel, Trig TY96 8.33 radio, Bendix King radio and transponder, RCA 2610 digital attitude indicator, Sky Map, Artex ELT, Davtron M800 chronometer, and convenient USB ports. Configured for utility and mission versatility, this MD 500E features a comprehensive list of factory and aftermarket options: cargo hook prepared, handling wheels, wire strike protection system, high skid gear, windscreen wipers and particle separator. It also includes provisions for external and internal utility power and is prepared for a fuel tank range extender, giving operators the flexibility to perform in demanding environments. Whether used for aerial work, surveillance, or private missions, the MD500E delivers unmatched capability. This aircraft represents a superb opportunity to own a highly respected model known for relatively low operating costs, robust construction, and exceptional flight characteristics. With strong remaining component times, excellent equipment, this MD 500E is now available for immediate use. Contact us today to secure this outstanding example of a true rotary legend. Airplane time state: Airframe hours: 14826 Engine model: Allison 250 C20 Engine hours: 1780 (HMI 2024) Blades: MRB - 697 hours Remaining TRB - 3542 hours Remaining Annual due: March 2027 Full Kardex on Request

Engine

1 Engine, Turbo Shaft

Description and equipment details provided by the seller. AeroGurus does not verify seller-provided information.

Price Comparison 1 active offer

Source Price Action
AT Aviation Sales
planecheck.com
$850,000
Handling Wheels
globalplanesearch.com
$850,000

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Md Helicopters MD-500 E loan calculator

AeroGurus

AeroGurus Data & Analysis

Independent data from FAA, NTSB, and market analysis

About This Md Helicopters MD-500 E

This 1988 Md Helicopters MD-500 E (N500SL) is a 5-seat single turbine helicopter . This aircraft is listed at the market average at $850,000.

The MD-500 E cruises at 135 kts (250 km/h) with a range of 232 nm (430 km) — ideal for short hops and local flights.

Operating costs: Fuel burn is 35 GPH (132 L/h), which at current Jet-A prices (~$5.50/gal) means approximately $192/hr in fuel alone. Total variable cost including maintenance reserves is approximately $450/hr. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, crew, annual inspection) average $80,000.

NTSB records show 0 incidents for this airframe — a clean safety record.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

Safety record: 0 NTSB incidents
Budget $525 for pre-purchase inspection

MD Helicopters MD-500 E — Model Specs

Model specification

Standard specs for this model. Actual aircraft may differ.

Seats
5
Cruise Speed
135 kts (250 km/h)
Range
232 nm (430 km)
Max Weight
3,000 lbs (1,361 kg)
Useful Load
1,550 lbs (703 kg)
Horsepower
420 HP
Fuel Burn
35 GPH (132 L/h)
TBO
3,500 hrs

Estimated Cost of Ownership

AeroGurus estimate

MD HELICOPTERS 500

Fuel Burn
35.0 GPH
~$228/hr
Variable Cost
$450/hr
fuel + mx + reserves
Annual Fixed
$80,000/yr
hangar + insurance + annual
Engine Overhaul
$250,000
every 3,500 hrs

AeroGurus estimates based on industry averages for the MD HELICOPTERS 500. Actual costs vary by location, usage, maintenance history, and configuration. Not a financial quote.

Ownership & Registration

FAA registration data pending for N500SL.

Location & Ownership

FAA records

Aircraft Location

Location not available

Title Status

No FAA title records

Available for US-registered aircraft only

Source: FAA Aircraft Registry, FAA Civil Aviation Registry (DocIndex). Title data may be delayed. Always verify with an aviation attorney before purchase.

Safety Record

NTSB safety data coming soon.

We'll check N500SL against the NTSB accident database.

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Prices and listings updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision. Actual transaction prices may differ from asking prices.