Bell AB47 vs Enstrom 280FX
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Bell AB47
No active listings right now.
Enstrom 280FX
- For sale now
- 7
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 3
- Source marketplaces
- 4
- Model years available
- 1978–2003
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Bell AB47 | Enstrom 280FX |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 1 | 21 |
| Serious | 0 | 3 |
| Fatal | 0 | 3 |
| Fatalities | 0 | 6 |
| % Fatal | 0% | 14% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Bell AB47 | Enstrom 280FX |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $51,551 – $74,463 | $133,992 – $213,750 |
| Category | Piston Helicopters | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 3 |
| Horsepower | — | 225 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 95 kts (176 km/h) |
| Range | — | 260 nm (482 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 12,000 ft (3,658 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 2,600 lbs (1,179 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 930 lbs (422 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 15.0 GPH (57 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 1,500 hrs |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bell AB47 or Enstrom 280FX?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 280FX cruises at 95 kts with 260 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Enstrom 280FX: from $195,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell AB47 and Enstrom 280FX?
280FX engine: Lycoming HIO-360-F1AD (225 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
280FX: 3 seats / 930 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
280FX: 1,500-hour TBO.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data