Mcdonnell Douglas Helicopters MD 900 Explorer

3 aircraft

The MD-900 Explorer revolutionized light helicopter design as the first twin-engine production helicopter to feature NOTAR (No Tail Rotor) anti-torque technology, eliminating tail rotor strike hazards. First flown on December 18, 1992, it was configured as a twin-turboshaft utility helicopter seating one pilot plus seven passengers in an all-composite airframe. Measuring 10 meters in length with a 10.34-meter five-blade main rotor diameter, the Explorer achieved a cruise speed of 274 km/h and maximum range of 630 kilometers. McDonnell Douglas Helicopters manufactured the aircraft at their Mesa, Arizona facility.