Enstrom F-28

Summary

Description

Since delivering their first helicopter shortly after Federal Aviation Administration type certification of the F-28 model in April 1965, the Enstrom Helicopter Corporation had produced approximately 1,200 aircraft as of 2007. The company developed three models, the F-28, the more aerodynamic 280, and the turbine-powered 480, each with their own variants. The F-28 and 280 both utilize Lycoming piston engines, virtually identical to those found in general aviation fixed-wing aircraft.

The Enstrom F-28 and 280 are characterized by their use of Lycoming piston engines, which are notably similar to those found in general aviation fixed-wing aircraft. The 280 Shark model introduced aerodynamic refinements over the F28C-2, while the 280FX featured landing gear fairings, redesigned air intakes on top of the cabin, and a redesigned, relocated horizontal stabilizer with vertical end plates. The main rotor of the F28F has a diameter of 32 feet, covering an area of 804 square feet with a NACA 0013.5 airfoil.

The Enstrom F-28 and 280 family of helicopters are not typically employed in combat roles and, as such, are not designed with integral weapons systems. The primary function of these helicopters remains civilian transportation, training, and observation, which typically does not necessitate armament. However, the F-27F-P variant, developed for police patrol, can be equipped with searchlights, FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) and a public address system for law enforcement operations. There is no mention of hardpoints or internal bays for munitions, nor any specific payload capacity related to offensive or defensive weaponry.

The Enstrom F-28 and 280 helicopters have seen operational use in both military and civil roles across the globe. The Colombian Air Force utilized 12 F-28F trainers, delivered in 1994, to enhance their pilot training programs. Several military and governmental organizations in South America have also operated the aircraft including the Chilean Army, the Peruvian Air Force, Army, and Navy, and the Venezuelan Air Force. In the United States, the Pasadena Police Department employed a specially equipped F-27F-P variant for patrol duties, enhancing its law enforcement capabilities with searchlights, FLIR, and a public address system. Civilian operators widely employ the Enstrom F-28 and 280 for commercial operations and flight training, with many small companies utilizing one or two aircraft.

Main Variants:

• F-28: The original model, certified in April 1965, marking the beginning of the Enstrom helicopter line.

• F-28A: The initial production version of the F-28, it was certified in May 1968.

• F-28C: This variant featured an upgraded engine with a turbocharger and a two-piece windscreen, enhancing its performance and visibility.

• F-28F Falcon: Similar to the F-28C, it boasts a more powerful engine, an improved turbocharger, and a throttle correlator for enhanced engine control.

• 280FX: Building on the 280F, this model includes landing gear fairings, redesigned air intakes on top of the cabin, and a relocated horizontal stabilizer with vertical end plates, improving aerodynamics and aesthetics.

Technical specifications

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	Pakistan	19
	Peru	11 (+4)
	Venezuela	2

Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.

All operators

Chile • Colombia • Pakistan • Peru • Venezuela

Photo of F-28