The MD 902 Explorer is a multipurpose twin-engine helicopter from MD Helicopters. The Mesa, Arizona based Helicopter manufacturer traces its roots back to 1955 when it was established as a rotorcraft division of Howard Hughes established Hughes Aircraft company. The helicopter business was sold to McDonnell Douglas in 1984 prior to becoming part of The Boeing Company in 1997. In 1999 Boeing decided to maintain the Military product line including the successful AH-64 Apache and sell the commercial product line creating what will become an independent MD Helicopters Company.

Launched in 1989, the MD 902 was the launch application of Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW200 series of turboshaft engines and the first MD helicopters model to feature the exclusive NOTAR(NO Tail Rotor) technology. The MD 902 completed its first flight on December 18, 1992, prior to entering service in 1995, establishing a new benchmark in terms of performance, affordability, dependability, and safety for light and medium-twin engine helicopters.

The Enhanced Explorer version introduced Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206E, with an increased maximum takeoff weight allowing for improved range and endurance. The MD 902 proved popular with a large number of applications ranging from Emergency Medical Service (EMS), law enforcement, utility, and corporate transportation