Enstrom Helicopter Corporation once again demonstrated its innovative vision for the future at HAI HELI-EXPO 2024, the world’s largest annual helicopter trade show. Between February 26-29, more than 15,000 helicopter pilots, professionals, and enthusiasts from 87 countries packed into Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA, breaking attendance records.

Enstrom representatives made the most of this international platform, announcing several key company initiatives and debuting never-before-seen paint schemes during a press conference at booth 6102.

President Todd Tetzlaff unveiled a new collaboration with Genesys Aerosystems to install and certify the latest generation Genesys Helicopter Autopilot in the Enstrom 480B. The three-axis VFR autopilot is scheduled for completion and availability for OEM factory fit and aftermarket retrofit by the end of 2024.

480B pilots can also anticipate longer battery life and faster, cooler engine starts thanks to Enstrom’s expanded partnership with Airwolf Aerospace. Enstrom will add a supplemental type certificate (STC) for the installation of True Blue Power® TB17 Lithium-ion batteries, which can weigh up to 63% less than traditional helicopter batteries.

Tetzlaff also announced a partnership with Kelly Aerospace Thermal Systems to provide air conditioning for Enstrom 280FX and F28F helicopters. The lightweight, but powerful system will allow Enstrom owners to enjoy their helicopter in climate-controlled comfort during warm summer months.

The paint schemes on display were designed personally by Dean Loucks, founder of the Art of Design.

“I can honestly say the paint schemes on the Enstrom show helicopters were among the most stunning of any OEM at the show,” said Enstrom Board Director Randy Sharkey.

Enstrom’s booth remained consistently busy throughout the show. Tetzlaff, Sharkey, Chief Commercial Officer Dennis Martin, and other Enstrom representatives spent the week networking with countless Enstrom customers, both new and old.

“There was a buzz that you could feel,” said Tetzlaff. “The excitement and enthusiasm for Enstrom was evident from the very start of the show, and it never let up!”

“If attendance at the Enstrom booth is any indicator of the company’s future, it is looking very bright,” said Sharkey.

Martin added, “I met with customers from six different continents. We were so busy at our booth; I was barely able to leave the Enstrom display.”

Enstrom also served as the official video sponsor for HELI-EXPO, helping showcase the 625 exhibitors and helicopter fly-ins through video presentations for anyone unable to attend HELI-EXPO in person.

With Helicopter Association International rebranding for next year, rotorcraft enthusiasts can look forward to Enstrom’s participation at Vertical Aviation International’s VERTICON 2025 in Dallas, TX from March 10-13.