Enstrom 280FX vs Hiller UH 12

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Enstrom 280FX
For sale now
7
Model years available
1978–2003
Hiller UH 12

No active listings right now.

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)Enstrom 280FXHiller UH 12
All events2116
Serious30
Fatal33
Fatalities65
% Fatal14%19%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Enstrom 280FX Hiller UH 12
Enstrom 280FX
View 3 listings →
Median $157,000
Hiller UH 12
View 1 listings →
Median $75,000
Price Range $133,992 – $213,750 $75,000
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, Enstrom 280FX or Hiller UH 12?
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 $545,000. Hiller UH 12: from $75,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Enstrom 280FX and Hiller UH 12?
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