Image: U.S. Army (Public Domain)
Hughes 500
Designation: OH-6 Cayuse / Hughes 500 / MD 500
Why it matters
In Vietnam, the OH-6 'Loach' flew low and slow on reconnaissance missions, finding the enemy so Cobras could kill them. Pilots loved its agility; it could turn inside anything.
The civilian 500 became ubiquitous — police departments, news stations, tour operators, and Hollywood all adopted it. But for a generation of TV viewers, one specific 500D in Island Hoppers livery defined the type: TC's helicopter in Magnum, P.I. That red, white, and yellow bird made the Hughes 500 an icon.
Specifications
| Max Speed | 175 mph |
|---|---|
| Range | 260 miles |
| Service Ceiling | 15,800 ft |
| Engine | Allison 250-C20B turboshaft |
| Power/Thrust | 420 shp |
| Length | 30 ft 10 in |
| Crew | 1 |
| Production | 4,700+ built (all variants) |
| First Flight | 1963-02-27 |
| Service Dates | 1966-present |
Notable Features
- Compact egg-shaped fuselage
- Five-blade main rotor
- T-tail with canted stabilizer
- Exceptional maneuverability
- Distinctive turbine whine
Patina notes
Working 500s show their hours in subtle ways. The distinctive teardrop shape develops minor dents from hangar rash. Skid tubes wear from countless landings.
Sun-faded paint on the horizontal stabilizer. The Plexiglas chin bubble scratches over time. Vietnam-era Loaches that survive are treasured — their combat damage often left visible as a badge of honor.
Preservation reality
The 500/MD 500 series remains in production under MD Helicopters. Thousands fly worldwide in civilian roles. Military OH-6 Cayuses are museum pieces now — the Army Aviation Museum has examples, as do private collections.
Vietnam-era Loaches with provenance are valuable. Civilian 500s are affordable enough that the type will be preserved simply through continued use.
Where to see one
- • U.S. Army Aviation Museum (Fort Novosel)
- • National Air and Space Museum
- • Hiller Aviation Museum
- • Various police aviation units
Preservation organizations
- • MD Helicopters Owners Association
- • Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association
Sources
- MD Helicopters MD 500(2026-02-04)