Minnesota DNR orders an MD 500E

MD Helicopters MD 500

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has ordered a new MD 500E helicopter.

This will be the first MD helicopter to join the DNR since the Aviation Unit was born in 1947. The MD 500E will join six fixed wing aircraft and two additional rotorcraft in the DNR hangars. In 2014, these aircraft combined to fly nearly 2,000 mission hours.

Craig Kitchen, chief commercial officer for MD Helicopters said: “From wildlife surveys to baiting, relocation and reconnaissance, and from fire detection and control to search and rescue efforts, telemetry studies and fish stocking, the DNR Aviation Unit plays such an incredibly important role in resource management. We are honoured the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources chose to expand their fleet with the MD 500E.”

Tom Buker, chief pilot for the Minnesota Department of Resources Enforcement Division added: “We needed an aircraft with a great safety record and small footprint that was affordable to operate. This helicopter will be a great addition to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ fleet of aircraft. It will help us better meet our ongoing commitments to conserve and manage the state’s natural resources.”

The new MD 500E is scheduled to begin service with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in March 2016.