MD Helicopters Announces FAA Certification of Super D20B Upgrade Kit

Now Available: Enhanced Performance, Proven Reliability

Mesa, Arizona — October 24, 2025 – Today MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH) announced the FAA approved the Supplemental Type Certificate for the Super D20B upgrade, which is the first in a series of upgrades coming over the next six months. Delivering enhanced power and performance through structural and aerodynamic improvements—while retaining the proven Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engine, the Super D20B offers operators a certified, cost-effective solution for increasing performance and max gross weight by up to 350 pounds or 11%. The upgrade is available at all MD Authorized Service Centers and the kits are ready to ship.

MDH is proud to announce that Aerial Solutions, Inc., a North Carolina–based company recognized for pioneering the use of helicopters in precision tree trimming operations, will be the first operator to receive the Super D20B upgrade.

The installation was completed by Southeast Helicopters, one of MDH’s Authorized Service Centers, marking the first fielded fleet upgrade to enter active service. Aerial Solutions is scheduled to take delivery of its upgraded aircraft within days, representing the first in a series of upcoming deliveries that will usher in a new era of enhanced performance across the MD fleet.

Super D20B Upgrade Highlights:

• Extended main and tail rotor blades for improved lift and performance
• Tail rotor gearbox extension for optimized control
• Modified tailboom to accommodate new dynamics
• New vertical and horizontal stabilizers for greater stability and efficiency

The list price for the upgrade including labor and paint is $350,000*, but final pricing is expected to be significantly lower if the operator chooses to sell the D-model parts and assemblies that will be replaced with F-model parts and assemblies. Please contact an MDH Authorized Service Center for a detailed quote. 

“This STC represents a huge milestone for both MD operators and MD Helicopters”, said Ryan Weeks, President & CEO of MD Helicopters. “It’s the first STC of its kind from MDH in more than a decade, and with five additional upgrades set for release in the coming months, excitement is building across the MD community. The modular design of these upgrades allows operators to tailor enhancement to their specific missions and implement them in stages if needed.”

Path to Future Performance: Super D20R and Super D30
 The Super D20B is the first in a family of upgrade kits designed to grow with operator needs.

• Super D20R (expected in early 2026): Offers the same comprehensive airframe and systems upgrades as the D20B but powered by the Rolls-Royce 250-C20R engine for greater performance in hot and high conditions.
• Super D30 (expected as early as December 2025): Builds on the same structural and aerodynamic enhancements, but incorporates the Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine, delivering even greater power and operational flexibility.

Because the Super D kits are modular, operators who install the Super D20B upgrade today can later transition to the Super D20R or Super D30 by swapping engines—protecting their initial investment while unlocking future performance.

The Super D family of upgrades reflects MD Helicopters’ ongoing dedication to advancing practical, performance-oriented innovations that improve operational efficiency, and lifecycle value for military, law enforcement, commercial, and utility customers worldwide.

For more information about the Super D20 upgrade package, visit https://www.mdhelicopters.com/fielded-fleet-upgrades/super-d-upgrades/ 

*  Price reflects kit only. Engine not included. If a new engine is required, additional costs will apply.

About MD Helicopters

MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH) manufactures high-performance rotorcraft solutions that support operators flying military, commercial, law enforcement, utility, and VIP mission profiles. With thousands of aircraft in service worldwide, MDH has been designing and building aircraft known for their safety, versatility, responsiveness, speed, and reliability since 1947. Our commitment to product sustainment and customer success allows MDH to deliver aircraft unmatched in their performance and reliability. MD Helicopters, LLC is owned by an investment consortium comprised of MBIA Insurance, Bardin Hill Investment Partners LP, and MB Global Partners. To learn more about MD Helicopters, visit us at mdhelicopters.com, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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