N521MB
MBB BK117 A-3 (A-3)
Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB)
2 Hours
Duration of Flight
270 NM
Range
150 MPH
Max Speed
Gallery
Basic Information
Airframe
Data valid as of 2025-11-26No flight history available
Flight records for this aircraft have not been tracked yet.
AI Summary
MBB BK117 A-3 (A-3)
Overview
N521MB appears in historical production/register listings as an allocated U.S. N‑number for MBB BK117 A‑3 c/n 7093 but no active FAA record or current U.S. certificate details were found in the public registry during this search; the airframe record shows German construction registration (D‑HBPN) and subsequent foreign registration (ZS‑HSE).
Specifications
- Engines: 2× Lycoming LTS101 series (LTS101-650B-1 typical for A-3) (550 lbf each)
- Range: 270 nm
- Cruise: 135 kts
- Ceiling: 17000 ft
Operations & Cabin
1–2 crew; flexible cabin layouts for 6–10 passengers or EMS stretcher/medical fit (typical A‑3 configurations) Utility/EMS convertible cabin; operator fit varies (medical interiors, cabin stretcher mounts, passenger seating options).
Model & Market Context
This entry documents the specific airframe bearing tail number N521MB, a MBB BK117 A-3 helicopter manufactured by Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB) with serial number 7093 and US registration. The public record for build year and detailed ownership timeline is not published; no notable ownership transfers or registry actions have been published for this airframe. Operator and home-base details are not published in the supplied data. Condition and valuation specifics for this individual helicopter are not published beyond the model-level performance and configuration data provided.
The airframe is configured in the typical A‑3 arrangement with crew capacity for 1–2 and flexible cabin layouts accommodating 6–10 passengers or an EMS stretcher/medical fit, reflecting its common use in utility, charter, and emergency medical services missions. Avionics fit is not published in the supplied data; operators commonly tailor avionics and mission equipment to role-specific requirements, and this airframe would be expected to follow that pattern. Typical mission profiles for this configuration include short- to medium-range passenger transfers, air ambulance sorties within the 270 nm range, and utility flights operating from a US base. Maintenance considerations for this specific aircraft are not published; however, twin-engine LTS101-powered BK117 A‑3s generally require specialized engine support and airframe inspection cycles consistent with twin-turbine rotorcraft of its class.
The MBB BK117 A-3 occupies a performance niche as a light twin-engine rotorcraft offering moderate range (270 nm), cruise speed around 135 kts, and a service ceiling near 17,000 ft, suitable for EMS, utility, and corporate shuttle roles. Competing models in its segment include other light twins designed for multi-role flexibility; buyer and charter demand typically emphasizes cabin versatility and proven twin-engine safety margins. Maintenance and resale considerations center on engine support for the Lycoming LTS101 series and airframe hours; individual valuation will depend on avionics fit, maintenance history, and interior configuration, none of which are published for N521MB.