Robinson R44 Cadet vs Enstrom 280FX
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R44 Cadet | Enstrom 280FX |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $361,920 – $563,500 | $133,859 – $220,000 |
| Category | Piston Helicopters | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 3 |
| Horsepower | 210 HP | 225 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 105 kts (194 km/h) | 95 kts (176 km/h) |
| Range | 300 nm (556 km) | 260 nm (482 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,200 lbs (998 kg) | 2,600 lbs (1,179 kg) |
| Useful Load | 750 lbs (340 kg) | 930 lbs (422 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 31.0 gal (117 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 2,400 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $150,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $25,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $185 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R44 Cadet
Fuel$77/hr
Variable$185/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$62,000/yr
Enstrom 280FX
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R44 Cadet or Enstrom 280FX?
Pick the R44 Cadet if…
- Faster cruise — 105 kts vs 95 kts.
- Longer range — 300 nm vs 260 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2016 vs 1975.
- More inventory — 14 listings vs 7.
Pick the 280FX if…
- Budget matters — from $133,859 vs $361,920, you save ~$228,061.
- More seats — 3 vs 2.
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 R44 Cadet or Enstrom 280FX?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R44 Cadet cruises at 105 kts with 300 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 R44 Cadet and Enstrom 280FX?
R44 Cadet engine: Lycoming O-540-F1B5 (derated) (210 hp).
280FX engine: Lycoming HIO-360-F1AD (225 hp).
Seats: 2 vs 3.
Cruise: 105 vs 95 kts.
Range: 300 vs 260 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44 Cadet: about $185/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?
R44 Cadet: 2 seats / 750 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?
R44 Cadet: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$150,000.
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