<< Latest News

Propelling Enstrom into the Future


Chuck Surack

For over 60 years, Enstrom Helicopter has been an industry leader in safety, design, and innovation and I couldn’t be more excited to join this renowned business and help reestablish this icon of the sky.

My history with Enstrom dates to 2008 when I began my journey of learning to fly these incredible machines. I had the opportunity to tour the factory and saw first-hand why Enstrom was considered to be one of the best in the industry and was thrilled to have purchased a brand new Enstrom 480B.

Chuck Surack touring Enstrom Helicopter with then president Jerry Mullins

Chuck at Enstrom in 2008

Now, 14 years later, I’m excited to have purchased this outstanding company that manufacturers helicopters in the United States, employing over 70 workers (and quickly growing) right here in the Midwest.

While upholding our reputation for safety, value, and performance – we’re excited to start building helicopters again and restore Enstrom to the industry-leading manufacturer it once was. With goals to improve and update the Enstrom fleet, we expect the first of these helicopters to be rolled out by the end of the year! Even with these lofty goals, we will always continue to support pilots who own an Enstrom helicopter by providing quality parts, service, and support.

I am humbled by the outpouring of support and loyalty from the aviation and Enstrom community – we’re proud to once again be able to serve you professionally and stably.

With a passion for providing excellent service, Chuck Surack is widely known for founding Sweetwater Sound, the largest online retailer of music instruments and professional audio equipment, growing it to a $1.5 billion business out of the back of his Volkswagen bus. His entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and enthusiasm for aviation are just a few reasons why under his ownership the future is bright for Enstrom.


About Enstrom Helicopter

From Rudy Enstrom’s early designs in 1943 to initial testing in a Michigan Quarry in 1957 to aircraft operating on six continents, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. Based in Menominee, Michigan and proudly made in the United States, Enstrom has a rich history for design innovation. The goal is to provide helicopters to the customer’s exact specification and deliver support and maintenance worldwide.