ENSTROM HELICOTPER 280FX SHark vs Guimbal Cabri G2

The Enstrom 280FX “Shark” and the Guimbal Cabri G2 are both light, piston-engine helicopters often used for training and personal flying, but they sit in slightly different niches. In category terms, the 280FX is a conventional, fully articulated light helicopter design, while the Cabri G2 is a newer-generation light trainer emphasizing crashworthiness and low operating burden, notably with a fenestron (ducted) tail rotor and modernized systems. For range, both are short- to medium-range aircraft typical of piston trainers. In general, the Enstrom 280FX is often regarded as offering competitive endurance for its class, while the Cabri G2’s range is also solid but frequently discussed more in terms of efficiency and training utility than outright distance; real-world range for either depends heavily on fuel load, power settings, and reserves. For passenger capacity, both are two-seat helicopters. The Enstrom typically provides side-by-side seating for a pilot and one passenger or student, and the Cabri G2 is similarly configured for instructor-student or pilot-passenger operations.