Cessna 208b Grand Caravan Ex vs Leonardo Aw189 vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer vs Robinson R66
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX is a single‑engine fixed‑wing utility aircraft in the light commuter/cargo category. It typically offers the longest range of the group and the highest passenger capacity, commonly configured around 9 passengers (or mixed passenger/cargo), making it efficient for longer point‑to‑point routes. The Leonardo AW189 is a large twin‑engine helicopter aimed at offshore, SAR, and high‑end utility work. Its range is generally shorter than the Caravan’s but strong for a helicopter, and it carries the most people among the rotorcraft here, often arranged for roughly 16–19 passengers depending on configuration. The MD Helicopters 902 Explorer is a light twin‑engine helicopter suited to EMS, law enforcement, and corporate missions. It has moderate range and typically seats fewer than the AW189, commonly around 6–8 passengers depending on interior layout. The Robinson R66 is a light single‑engine turbine helicopter focused on cost‑effective utility and private operations. It has the shortest range and the smallest capacity, usually around 4 passengers plus a pilot.
| Spec | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189 |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 15.57 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo |
| Aircraft Name | AW189 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 651 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,413 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,413,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | CT7-2E1 |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1983 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 57.8 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.6 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 48 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 395 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 85 |