Mesa Police Department Aviation Unit Orders New MD 530F Helicopter

Mesa PD upgrades fleet to include proven MD 530F for increased effectiveness in Hot-High environments

Mesa, Ariz., March 03, 2015

MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) announced today a new contract to manufacture and deliver a new helicopter for the Mesa Police Department Aviation Unit. Acquisition of the new MD 530F was approved by the Mesa City Council as an addition to the Department’s existing helicopter fleet of two MD 500E turbine helicopters. The 530F is perfectly suited for operation in the extreme Arizona heat, and will provide enhanced aerial support capabilities for Mesa’s growing aviation unit that already includes three MD 500E helicopters.

The Mesa Police Department’s MD 530F will feature a 650shp Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine, extended tail boom and longer main-rotor blades, and will be equipped with a complete Garmin suite, including the latest 500H glass cockpit, GTS800 Traffic Avoidance System and GTN 650 to support navigation, communications and safe flight operations. The new aircraft retains the characteristics of speed, agility and maneuverability of all MD 500-series helicopters, and pairs well with the unit’s existing fleet; delivering the added benefits of common tooling, parts and familiar engine OEM. 

“We are proud that the Mesa Police Department has selected to expand its airborne law enforcement capabilities with the addition of another MD helicopter; the powerful, dependable MD 530F,” said Lynn Tilton, Chief Executive Officer at MD Helicopters.  “It is a great honor that our local police force has chosen to fly in an aircraft built locally.  It is a great pleasure to support this great force in its service to our community.”

A natural enhancement to Mesa’s existing fleet of MD 500E helicopters, the MD 530F is the finest high-altitude, hot-day performer in its class, offering the speed and overall versatility required to optimize the Mesa PD’s aerial support of pursuit, surveillance, and search and rescue missions.”

MD Helicopters will deliver the new, custom-configured MD 530F in Spring 2015.

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