Enstrom 480B

The turbine helicopter built for training and law enforcement missions

Overview

Enstrom Helicopter United States ICAO: EN48 2001–Present Active $1.2 million

The Enstrom 480B is a light turbine helicopter developed as a more powerful alternative to the F28 series. Designed for flight training, patrol, and utility roles, it combines compact dimensions with improved performance. The aircraft has been adopted by both civilian and military operators.

Live Fleet Activity (EN48)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Rolls Royce 250-C20W
Engine type
Turbine
Thrust
420 lbf · 2 kN
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
5
Crew
—
Cabin width
5 ft 7 in  ·  1.70 m
Cabin height
3 ft 3 in  ·  1.00 m
Cabin length
6 ft 7 in  ·  2.00 m
Exterior length
30 ft 2 in  ·  9.20 m
Tail height
8 ft 6 in  ·  2.60 m
Fuselage diameter
6 ft 3 in  ·  1.90 m
Wing span
32 ft 0 in  ·  9.75 m
Baggage volume
35 ft³  ·  1.0 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
3,000 lb  ·  1,350 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,200 lb  ·  550 kg
Fuel capacity
90 gal · 300 L · 300 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
115 kt  ·  132 mph  ·  213 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
370 nm  ·  430 mi  ·  690 km
Fuel burn
4.11 nm/gal  ·  2.01 km/L
Ceiling
15,600 ft  ·  4,800 m
Rate of climb
1,600 ft/min  ·  8 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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TH-480B

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Operational Context

Enstrom 480B — light turbine utility helicopter

The 480 series was introduced in the 1990s as Enstrom’s entry into the turbine-powered helicopter market. The 480B variant incorporated updated avionics and systems while retaining the company’s characteristic rotor design. It entered service as a versatile platform suited for training and light operational duties.

Powered by a Rolls-Royce Allison 250-C20W turboshaft engine producing approximately 420 shaft horsepower, the 480B cruises at about 120 knots (220 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 3,000 pounds (1,360 kg). The helicopter maintains a three-blade rotor configuration for stable flight characteristics.

The 480B has been used by law enforcement agencies and by military training programs seeking a light turbine platform. Its combination of compact size and turbine reliability distinguishes it within its category. The model continues Enstrom’s tradition of durable light helicopter production.