FAA Approves MD Explorer 902 Gross Maximum Weight Increase To 6,770 Lb.

- Aircraft Certification Adds 270 lb. of Payload Capabilities

MESA, Arizona, March 6, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company and leading manufacturer of commercial, air-rescue, military and law enforcement helicopters, announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the MD Explorer 902 certification at an increased maximum gross weight of 6,770 lbs. (3,070 kg.). The extra payload of 270 lbs. (122 kg.) allows operators in every market segment to further leverage the superior mission capabilities of this versatile aircraft.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130306/DE72153LOGO )

"We are pleased that the certification is complete," said Carl Schopfer, President of MDHI. "The approval paves the way for a new set of equipment and technology configurations that will raise the mission versatility of the Explorer 902 to new heights for our operators. While the capabilities of the aircraft have always been superior, the certification confirms the MD Explorer's position as the world's most capable light twin."

Powered by two Pratt and Whitney Canada PW207E engines, the MD Explorer features a fully articulated main rotor system, bearingless composite flexbeams and rotor hub. Anti-torque control is provided by the revolutionary NOTAR system that reduces pilot workload, external noise levels and significantly improves safety in confined areas and on offshore platforms.

The six-place MD Explorer cabin is the largest in the light twin class and is accessed through two 52 inch (1.32m) sliding cabin doors and a large baggage compartment. Energy absorbing, stroking cabin seats meet stringent FAR Part 27.562 requirements up to 30g at 30 feet per second. The large cabin makes the MD Explorer ideally suited for rapid role change from an Offshore/Onshore six-place passenger transport to Emergency Medical Services or Law Enforcement missions. Large selections of optional equipment have been fully qualified to meet various operational requirements. A heavy-duty cargo hook permits more than 3,000-pound (1360-KG) external load operations.

MD Explorer safety and maintainability are enhanced by built-in HIRF and lightning strike protection, built-in maintenance steps and platforms, and an advanced composite airframe that is resistant to corrosion in a hostile marine environment.

Visit MD Helicopters in booth N4121 at the 2013 HELI-EXPO, to meet with product specialists and explore the impressive capabilities of the Explorer 902.

About MD Helicopters
MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI), a Lynn Tilton company, is a leading manufacturer of commercial, military, law enforcement and air-rescue helicopters.  The MDHI family of rotorcraft is world renowned for its value, versatility and performance.  The MD Helicopters family includes the twin-engine MD Explorer, and single engine versions of the MD 600N, MD 520N, MD 500E, MD 530F and MD 540F. The innovative NOTAR system for anti-torque control with no tail rotor is used exclusively by MD Helicopters to provide safer, quieter and confined-area access capability.  The company is based in Mesa, Arizona. For more information about MDHI, visit www.mdhelicopters.com.