Robinson R22 Alpha vs Enstrom 280FX
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R22 Alpha | Enstrom 280FX |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $99,000 | $133,906 – $220,000 |
| Category | Piston Helicopters | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 3 |
| Horsepower | 124 HP | 225 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 96 kts (178 km/h) | 95 kts (176 km/h) |
| Range | 209 nm (387 km) | 260 nm (482 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,370 lbs (621 kg) | 2,600 lbs (1,179 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 930 lbs (422 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 gal (64 L) | — |
| TBO | 2,200 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $120,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $150 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R22 Alpha
Variable$150/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$48,000/yr
Enstrom 280FX
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R22 Alpha or Enstrom 280FX?
Pick the R22 Alpha if…
- Budget matters — from $99,000 vs $133,906, you save ~$34,906.
- Faster cruise — 96 kts vs 95 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1983 vs 1975.
Pick the 280FX if…
- More seats — 3 vs 2.
- Longer range — 260 nm vs 209 nm.
- More inventory — 6 listings vs 1.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Robinson R22 Alpha or Enstrom 280FX?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R22 Alpha cruises at 96 kts with 209 nm range.
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?
Robinson R22 Alpha: from $99,000.
Enstrom 280FX: from $195,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Robinson R22 Alpha and Enstrom 280FX?
R22 Alpha engine: Lycoming O-320-B2C (124 hp).
280FX engine: Lycoming HIO-360-F1AD (225 hp).
Seats: 2 vs 3.
Cruise: 96 vs 95 kts.
Range: 209 vs 260 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R22 Alpha: about $150/hr variable cost.
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?
R22 Alpha: 2 seats.
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?
R22 Alpha: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$120,000.
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