Academy 1/48 Hughes 500D Police Helicopter Scaled Plastic Model Kit

The Hughes Helicopters Inc Model 500 went into commercial production in 1969 after eight years of development, beginning with the 6A CAYUSE military scout version. The Model 500C, certified in 1872, quickly established a reputation as economical and productive for a multi-purpose business helicopter. In December 1976, the Hughes Model 500D was certificated by the Federal Aviation Administration, replacing the 500C on the company's production line.

The 500D incorporated a new five-bladed main rotor and an all-new drive train with a larger tail rotor and a distinctive "T" tail. These advanced technological improvements provided substantial increases in speed, lifting capabilities and reliability. The 500D's top speed of nearly three miles per minute makes it the fastest helicopter in its class.