Aircraft overview

The Enstrom F-28 is a light piston helicopter built by Enstrom Helicopter Corporation of Menominee, Michigan. The original F-28 first flew in the early 1960s and entered production in the mid 1960s, establishing the basic Enstrom layout that would continue through later piston models. It is a three-seat, single-engine helicopter used for private flying, training, patrol, light utility work and owner-flown transport. Its importance in the used market comes from its conventional, robust design: a fully articulated three-blade main rotor, simple piston power and a compact cabin sized for short regional missions.

Performance & specifications

Performance depends on variant, equipment and operating weight, but the F-28 is generally a 90-knot class helicopter. Later F-28F examples are commonly quoted with cruise speeds around the high 80s to low 90s knots, range in the area of 200 nautical miles with reserves depending on fuel and payload, and useful load typically around 850 to 950 lb. Service ceiling for later models is around 12,000 feet. Power comes from Lycoming horizontally opposed piston engines, with early F-28A aircraft using the HIO-360 series and later F-28C and F-28F versions using turbocharged or higher-rated HIO-360 variants. Buyers should verify the exact approved figures from the flight manual for the individual serial number.

Cabin & avionics

The F-28 cabin seats three, with the pilot and two passengers in a compact front cabin rather than a separate rear passenger compartment. Visibility is a defining feature, with large transparencies and a low instrument panel that suit observation, training and local transport. Most used aircraft retain analog flight and engine instruments. Typical avionics are practical rather than integrated: VHF comm, transponder, intercom, basic nav equipment and, on upgraded aircraft, Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, ADS-B transponders and modern audio panels. Garmin Perspective and G1000 suites are not typical F-28 installations.

Buying & value

On the used market, the Enstrom F-28 usually sits as an owner-operated and training-capable alternative to more common two-seat piston helicopters, with the advantage of a third seat. Early F-28A aircraft may be attractively priced but need careful review of parts support, records and upgrade status. F-28C models add turbocharged performance, while F-28F aircraft are generally the most desirable of the traditional F-28 line. Pre-purchase focus should include engine time and condition, rotor blade life, transmission and clutch records, tail rotor and tailboom condition, corrosion, compliance with airworthiness directives and Enstrom service bulletins, and the quality of any avionics or interior refurbishment.