Aero-TV: Enstrom Introduces Air Conditioning for 280FX

Manufacturer Showcases First Prototype at Rotors ‘n Ribs

Enstrom Helicopters displayed its first air conditioned 280FX Shark at the 2024 Rotors ‘n Ribs event at Goshen Municipal Airport (GSH). The company plans to integrate this technology into other designs and, eventually, earn an STC for retrofits.

“Helicopters sure are fun to fly, but unlike an airplane, we don’t have that advantage of going up high and getting that cool air,” noted Dennis Martin, Chief Commercial Officer of Enstrom Helicopter. “When you’re out hovering, it can be pretty darn hot.”

In hopes to improve in-flight comfort and safety, Enstrom partnered with air conditioning manufacturer Kelly Aerospace. The fully-electric system weighs only 48 pounds, producing no significant impact on the rotorcraft’s center of gravity.

The air conditioning system is currently fitted on one of Enstrom’s 280FX Sharks. This helicopter utilizes a turbocharged HIO-360 power plant producing 225 shp and cruise speeds up to 109 mph. It has notably low operating costs, with a 237 nm range and 3.5 hour fuel endurance.

Since the design is still in early stages, Enstrom has no cost estimate. However, air conditioned rotorcraft are few and far between, making the 280FX the latest member of an exclusive club.

“It works phenomenal. Out here on the ramp today, the hot sun, it's been keeping that cabin really cool,” Martin continued.

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