Robinson R22 vs Enstrom 280FX
The Robinson R22 and Enstrom 280FX are both piston helicopters, but aimed differently: the R22 is the world's standard two-seat trainer, while the heavier three-seat 280FX is built for robustness and a more stable ride.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R22 | Enstrom 280FX |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $18,000 – $449,000 | $133,929 – $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 | 454 lbs (206 kg) | 930 lbs (422 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 gal (64 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 2,200 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $60,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $15,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $140 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R22
Fuel$55/hr
Variable$140/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$43,000/yr
Enstrom 280FX
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R22 or Enstrom 280FX?
Bottom line: pick the R22 for the lowest training and ownership cost and the largest used market and support network. Pick the Enstrom 280FX if you want a third seat and a heavier, more forgiving airframe, and don't mind a much thinner used market.
Pick the R22 if…
- Budget matters — from $18,000 vs $133,929, you save ~$115,929.
- Faster cruise — 96 kts vs 95 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1979 vs 1975.
- More inventory — 155 listings vs 6.
Pick the 280FX if…
- More seats — 3 vs 2.
- Longer range — 260 nm vs 209 nm.
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 or Enstrom 280FX?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R22 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?
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 and Enstrom 280FX?
R22 engine: Lycoming O-320 (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: about $140/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: 2 seats / 454 lb 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?
R22: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$60,000.
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