Light Helicopters
Enstrom 280FX Shark
ICAO: EN28
Overview
The Enstrom F28F is a light piston-engine helicopter designed for training and private use. Known for its solid construction and smooth handling, it has served civilian pilots for decades. The aircraft reflects Enstrom’s focus on durability and straightforward operation.
Live Fleet Activity (EN28)
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Specifications
Units
- Engine
- 1 × Lycoming H10-360-F1AD
- Engine type
- Piston
- Power
- 225 hp · 168 kW
- Avionics
- —
- Wing tips
- No winglets
- Seats
- 2
- Crew
- —
- Cabin width
- —
- Cabin height
- —
- Cabin length
- —
- Exterior length
- 29 ft 6 in · 9.00 m
- Tail height
- 7 ft 10 in · 2.38 m
- Fuselage diameter
- —
- Wing span
- 32 ft 0 in · 9.75 m
- Baggage volume
- —
- Gross weight
- —
- Empty weight
- —
- Max takeoff weight
- 2,600 lb · 1,200 kg
- Max landing weight
- —
- Max payload
- 750 lb · 350 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 40 gal · 200 L · 100 kg (AvGas)
- Max cruise speed
- 100 kt · 115 mph · 185 km/h
- Maximum speed
- —
- Cruise speed
- —
- Approach speed
- —
- Range
- 241 nm · 280 mi · 450 km
- Fuel burn
- 5.73 nm/gal · 2.80 km/L
- Ceiling
- 13,200 ft · 4,000 m
- Rate of climb
- 1,450 ft/min · 7 m/s
- Takeoff distance
- —
- Landing distance
- —
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Live fleet activity details
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Operational Context
Enstrom F28F — light piston training helicopter
The Enstrom F28 series first flew in the 1960s as a compact two-seat helicopter intended for the civil market. The F28F variant introduced improvements in engine power and systems while retaining the basic airframe layout. Production continued for many years, giving the design a long service life in flight schools and private ownership.
Powered by a Lycoming piston engine producing approximately 225 horsepower, the F28F cruises at around 95 knots (175 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 2,600 pounds (1,180 kg). The three-blade fully articulated rotor system contributes to stable handling and reduced vibration compared with some light helicopter designs.
The aircraft has been used for primary instruction, personal transport, and light patrol work. Its robust airframe and predictable flight characteristics have helped it maintain a loyal customer base. The F28F remains one of the more recognizable American piston helicopter designs.
Sources and references used for research and fact-checking.