Rotor Torque

McDonnell Douglas Explorer Noise Tests Prove Encouraging NZ

company Flightline Aviation, distributer of McDonnell Douglas helicopters in Australasia reports that FAA certification tests on the new twin engine MD Explorer are prov- ing encouraging in both noise footprint and pollution tests. The 2724kg, eight place helicopter produced a maximum 74db noise level during a flyover at 500ft. This compares very favourably with the MD520N’s 73db under the same conditions. McDonnell Douglas is confidently predicting that the new helicopter will prove to be 50% quieter than its competitors.

Advanced design is the key to the Explorer’s ability to be quiet despite its size. In addition to the NOTAR system already proved in the 520N, the new helicopter incorporates a five bladed rotor system with swept tip blades, advanced aerofoil shape, engine exhaust vented upward, a low drag rotor hub, upward facing NOTAR fan inlet duct, and engine inlet optimised for the quietest possible performance.

This content is available exclusively to Australian Aviation members.

Login

Become a Member

To continue reading the rest of this article, please login.

Username or Email

Password Forgot password?

Keep me signed in on this device.

If you check this box before you log in, you won’t have to log back into the website next time you return, even if you close your browser and come back later.

If you check the box above before you log in, you won’t have to log back into the website next time you return, even if you close your browser and come back later.

---

or

---

Login with a Passkey

To unlock all Australian Aviation magazine content and again unlimited access to our daily news and features, become a member today!
A monthly membership is only $5.99 or save with our annual plans.

PRINT

$49.95 for 1 year Become a Member

See benefits

• Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
• Access to In Focus reports every month on our website

MOST POPULAR

PRINT + DIGITAL

$99.95 for 1 year Become a Member

$179.95 for 2 years Become a Member

See benefits

• Unlimited access to all Australian Aviation digital content
• Access to the Australian Aviation app
• Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
• Access to In Focus reports every month on our website
• Access to our Behind the Lens photo galleries and other exclusive content
• Daily news updates via our email bulletin

DIGITAL

$5.99 Monthly Become a Member

$59.95 Annual Become a Member

See benefits

• Unlimited access to all Australian Aviation digital content
• Access to the Australian Aviation app
• Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
• Access to In Focus reports every month on our website
• Access to our Behind the Lens photo galleries and other exclusive content
• Daily news updates via our email bulletin

View more offers and details