The helicopter will enter service later this month at the Grand Canyon, serving the fast growing tourist market at one of the world's most famous natural wonders. The MD 600N, along with its sister helicopters from McDonnell Douglas, the MD 520N and the MD Explorer, are the only helicopters that meet the proposed stringent Federal Aviation Administration and National Park Service guidelines for aircraft noise emissions.

The MD 600N is an eight-place, single-turbine helicopter that features McDonnell Douglas' exclusive NOTAR® system for anti-torque and directional control. The system gives its operators three distinct advantages over other helicopters: the helicopters are safer, easier to fly and maintain and they are the quietest helicopter in their class. The helicopter also features very competitive direct operating costs, another advantage in today's highly competitive markets.

The MD 600N features the new 808-shaft horsepower Allison 250-C47M turbine engine with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system that gives the pilot more precise control over engine operations and fuel utilization.

Changes in the aircraft's configuration since its introduction include easier-to-use doors for the rear compartment and increased safety measures.

The MD 600N has greater range, more lifting power, greater interior space and flies faster than the MD 520N on which it is based. The aircraft features a 115-gallon fuel tank, giving endurance of 3.7 hours, or about 426 miles (686 km). While flying at maximum gross weight of 4,100 lb (1860 kg), the helicopter has demonstrated cruise speeds of greater than 155 mph (250 kmph), hover out-of-ground-effect performance at more than 6,800 ft (2073 m).