MD Helicopters MD500 E
H500Light Turbine HelicopterCurated data · 2026-06The MD500, here in the E version, is the single-turbine helicopter derived from the Hughes 500, in production since 1982 (model 369E) and known for its compact size and rounded fuselage.
Know what it really costs to operate
Full operating cost, variable vs fixed mix and a line by line breakdown: the math that decides the purchase.
Starter feature. Available on your Jet Tracker account.
These figures are estimates calculated by the Jet Tracker algorithm with editable assumptions and may contain errors: they are not a firm quote or an appraisal. Confirm with a broker, operator or appraiser before closing a deal.
Frequently asked questions about the cost
How much does it cost to operate the MD Helicopters MD500 E per hour?
Jet Tracker estimate: about US$ 1,538 per flight hour at 200 h/year, of which US$ 594 per hour is variable cost (fuel, engine program, maintenance reserves, fees) plus US$ 188,800 per year of fixed cost (crew, hangar, insurance, training).
How much does it cost per year to keep the MD Helicopters MD500 E flying 200 hours?
About US$ 307,542 per year (roughly R$ 1,715,010 at today's exchange rate), of which 39% is variable cost (depends on hours flown) and 61% is fixed cost (exists even with the aircraft parked).
How much fuel does the MD Helicopters MD500 E burn per hour, in cost?
About US$ 187 per flight hour, at the US$ 6.24 per gallon used in this simulation. Fuel is usually the largest variable cost item.
How much does the MD Helicopters MD500 E cost per nautical mile?
About US$ 11.39 per nautical mile, at a cruise speed of 135 kt. It is the right metric to compare aircraft of different speeds on the same route.
What is the difference between variable and fixed cost?
Variable cost only exists when the aircraft flies: fuel, engine program, hourly maintenance reserves and landing fees. Fixed cost exists even with the aircraft in the hangar: crew, hangarage, insurance, training and subscriptions. That is why total cost per hour falls the more hours per year the aircraft flies.
Estimates from the Jet Tracker cost engine under the assumptions shown in the calculator. They do not replace a quote from an operator, MRO or insurer.