Cessna 172 Skyhawk vs Cessna Caravan vs Cessna Grand Caravan Ex

The Cessna Skyhawk (typically the 172) is a single‑engine, four‑seat piston aircraft in the light trainer/personal transport category. It is best suited to short regional trips, with a typical range on the order of roughly 600–800 nautical miles depending on model, loading, and reserves. The Cessna Caravan (commonly the 208) is a single‑engine turboprop utility aircraft designed for rugged commercial work such as cargo, bush operations, and short‑haul commuter flying. It carries far more than a Skyhawk, commonly configured for around 9–14 passengers (or substantial freight), and typically offers a range around roughly 900–1,200 nautical miles depending on payload and variant. The Cessna Grand Caravan EX (208B with the more powerful PT6A‑140) is an upgraded, stretched Caravan variant in the same utility/commuter turboprop category. Passenger capacity is similar to the Caravan, often up to about 14 seats, but with improved hot‑and‑high performance and payload capability; its range is broadly comparable, generally around roughly 900–1,200 nautical miles depending on configuration.