Enstrom 280 Aircraft in Florida

Florida is a major used-aircraft transaction state with high concentration of flight schools, dealers and aviation events (Sun 'n Fun, Naples, Vero Beach, Lakeland). The flat terrain and dense GA airport network make Florida ideal for cross-country training and recreational flying year-round.

2 used Enstrom 280 aircraft for sale in Florida · $120K – $235K · updated 5 hours ago

About the Enstrom 280

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

Enstrom 280 Specifications

Model spec

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

Performance
Cruise95 kt (176 km/h)
Range237–260 nm (439–482 km)
Weights & Seats
Seats3
Max Gross Weight2,600 lbs (1,179 kg)
Useful Load930 lbs (422 kg)

2 Enstrom 280 For Sale

There are currently 2 used Enstrom 280 for sale, ranging from $120,000 to $235,000, with a median asking price of $177,500.

$120,000
For Sale
Reg# N285Q US
Location Winter Haven, FL
Via Adam Pate
Listed 1mo ago
$235,000
For Sale
Total Time 2,230
Reg# N88ZH US
Location Pensacola, FL
4 sources
Listed 2mo ago

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) from $195K 2

Compare Enstrom 280

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

Enstrom 280 Price & Cost

How much does a Enstrom 280 cost? Used 280 prices: $120K – $235K, average $177K (median $177K), across 2 priced of 2 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.

Buying a Used Enstrom 280

When buying a Enstrom 280, the biggest value drivers are engine time since overhaul, maintenance-record completeness, damage history and avionics.

What to check before buying

  • Engine time to overhaul — hours and years remaining drive price more than total airframe time.
  • Logbook completeness — continuous, gap-free maintenance records protect value.
  • Damage history — any prior accident or incident; cross-check the registration against accident databases.
  • Avionics — a modern glass panel vs legacy steam gauges materially changes price.
  • Pre-buy inspection — always commission an independent inspection by a type-experienced mechanic before money changes hands.

Frequently Asked Questions — Enstrom 280

Cost?
From $120,000 to $235,000, median $177,500 across 2 listings.
Enstrom 280 vs Robinson R44?
The Enstrom is heavier, very stable and rugged with an articulated rotor; the

Enstrom 280 Inventory by Country

United States8
Slovenia2
Spain1
Guatemala1

Enstrom 280 Inventory by State

California2
Florida2

Enstrom 280 by Price

Under $100k1
Under $200k10
Under $300k12
Under $500k13

Enstrom 280 by Decade

1970s1
1980s1

Recently Sold Enstrom 280

1978 280C SHARK$130,000
1997 280FX SHARK$209,000

Other Enstrom Helicopters

Enstrom 280FX2
All Enstrom →

Enstrom 280 Safety Record

Across all 280 variants, 86 NTSB-recorded events are on file from 1982–2025. As with any aircraft, most outcomes depend on pilot training, maintenance and operating conditions rather than the airframe itself.

Most Recent Events

Date Location Severity Probable Cause
Dec 28, 2025 Hammonton, NJ Fatal (2)
Mar 15, 2025 Waterford, CA Serious The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from water while operating at a low altitude.
Jul 27, 2024 Russellville, KY Incident The flight instructor’s failure to maintain sufficient rotor rpm while maneuvering the helicopter low to the ground, whi…
Feb 15, 2024 Lewistown, MT Incident The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from terrain. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s encounter with low …
Dec 01, 2023 Madrid, Incident
View all 86 NTSB events →

NTSB records 1982–2025. Includes all Enstrom 280 variants. Events ≠ aircraft fault.

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 5 hours ago · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data