Enstrom 280 Helicopter

The Enstrom 280 (the "Shark") and its F28 sibling are three-seat piston helicopters known for exceptional stability and a strong, fully-articulated rotor system that gives a smooth, forgiving ride. Powered by a Lycoming piston (turbocharged on several variants), the 280 is a rugged, lower-cost light helicopter favoured for private flying and training where stability and build quality matter.

Enstrom 280 helicopter for sale

18 used Enstrom 280 helicopters for sale · 3-seat · Used median asking $149,000 · updated yesterday

Enstrom 280 Specifications

Model spec

The Enstrom 280 is a 3-seat piston helicopters with a cruise speed of 95 kt (176 km/h), a range of 237–260 nm (439–482 km), and a useful load of 900–930 lbs (408–422 kg).

Performance
Cruise95 kt (176 km/h)
Range237–260 nm (439–482 km)
Service Ceiling12,000 ft (3,658 m)
Engine & Fuel
Horsepower225 HP
Fuel Burn15.0 GPH (57 L/h)
TBO1,500 hrs
Weights & Seats
Seats3
Max Gross Weight2,600 lbs (1,179 kg)
Useful Load900–930 lbs (408–422 kg)

Enstrom 280 for Sale

Browse all listings →

Enstrom 280 asking prices range from $97,082 to $470,000, with a median of $149,000.

1981 Enstrom F-280C Shark

1981 Enstrom F-280C Shark for sale
$97,082 ↓ -$2K
For Sale
Total Time 1,496
Reg# S5-HKA Slovenia
Location Slovenia
Via Tinles d.o.o.
Listed 2mo ago

1978 Enstrom F28C

1978 Enstrom F28C for sale
$115,000
For Sale
Total Time 3,035
Reg# N51774 US
Location Danbury, TX
Via Tim Salaika

1975 Enstrom F28A

1975 Enstrom F28A for sale
$120,000
For Sale
Reg# N285Q US
Location Winter Haven, FL
Via Adam Pate

Enstrom 280C Shark

Enstrom 280C Shark for sale below typical asking range
$131,870
For Sale
Total Time 1,959
Via Aljaž Ferjančič

1980 Enstrom 280C SHARK

1980 Enstrom 280C SHARK for sale
$133,000
For Sale
Total Time 1,959
Reg# S5-HCU Slovenia
Location Maribor, Slovenia
Via Egmont Aviation d.o.o.
Multiple sources

1982 Enstrom F28F

1982 Enstrom F28F for sale
$145,000
For Sale
Total Time 2,697
Reg# N857MM US
Location Three Forks, MT
Via Josh O''Connor

Enstrom 280C SHARK

Enstrom 280C SHARK for sale within typical asking range
$149,000
For Sale
Total Time 2,072
Reg# N59AX US
Location Petersburg, VA
Via Central Virginia Aviation
Multiple sources
Listed 2mo ago

1978 Enstrom 280C SHARK

1978 Enstrom 280C SHARK for sale
$165,000
For Sale
Reg# N1577E US
Location Fresno, CA
Via Jack Ferguson

1996 Enstrom F28F

1996 Enstrom F28F for sale
$185,000
For Sale
Total Time 6,664
Reg# N51PD US
Location Bakersfield, CA
Via AEROCOR

1989 Enstrom 280FX

1989 Enstrom 280FX for sale below typical asking range
$195,000
For Sale
Total Time 1,159
Reg# C-GMBD Canada
Location Greenville, SC
Via TransGlobal Aviation
Multiple sources

Enstrom 280 Variants

Variant Years Seats Cruise Range Useful load Price range Best for Listings for sale
280FX 1975–1987 3 95 kts (176 km/h) 260 nm (482 km) 930 lbs (422 kg) $131K – $220K Enstrom piston helicopter for private, training, or light utility buyers who want a non-Robinson option with confirmed support. 6

Compare Enstrom 280

See how the Enstrom 280 stacks up against similar aircraft in specs, price, and operating costs.

Enstrom 280 vs Robinson R22 Enstrom 280 vs Robinson R44 Enstrom 280 vs Schweizer 300

Enstrom 280 Price & Cost

How much does a Enstrom 280 cost? Used 280 prices: $97K – $470K, average $181K (median $149K), across 13 priced of 18 active listings.

Enstrom 280 Price Guide

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Enstrom 280 Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (15.0 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$9,300/yr
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.
Buying guides: Buyer's Guide | Financing Guide | Pre-Buy Inspection

Buying a Used Enstrom 280

Buying a Enstrom 280 comes down to a focused pre-purchase checklist — here is what matters most on this model:

What to check before buying

  • Variant — F28 / 280 / 280C / 280FX; verify which and the engine (some turbocharged).
  • Engine — Lycoming piston time and overhaul; turbo condition where fitted.
  • Rotor & dynamic components — fully-articulated rotor; verify rotor/gearbox times and life-limited parts.
  • Airframe & corrosion — inspect structure; complete logs.
  • Avionics — verify ADS-B Out where required.

Frequently Asked Questions — Enstrom 280

Cost?
From $97,082 to $470,000, median $149,000 across 18 listings.
Enstrom 280 vs Robinson R44?
The Enstrom is heavier, very stable and rugged with an articulated rotor; the
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed yesterday · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data