Cessna 208b Grand Caravan Ex vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer vs Piaggio Avanti Evo vs Robinson R66
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX is a single‑engine turboprop fixed‑wing utility aircraft, typically used for short to medium regional legs. It generally offers the longest range of this group and the highest passenger capacity, commonly configured for around 9 passengers (with options for more seats in commuter layouts). The MD Helicopters 902 Explorer is a twin‑engine light helicopter aimed at VIP, law enforcement, and utility missions. Its range is typically shorter than the fixed‑wing aircraft here, and passenger capacity is moderate, often around 6–8 occupants depending on interior and mission equipment. The Piaggio Avanti EVO is a twin‑turboprop business aircraft optimized for fast regional travel. It usually combines long range with a pressurized cabin and a business‑class layout of about 6–9 passengers, offering greater speed and comfort than the Caravan, but less rugged utility flexibility. The Robinson R66 is a single‑engine light helicopter. It tends to have the shortest range and the smallest cabin, typically seating about 4 passengers plus a pilot, favoring short‑range charter and point‑to‑point access over capacity.
| Spec | Piaggio Avanti EVO |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Piaggio |
| Aircraft Name | Avanti EVO |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1530 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3775 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 400 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $ 7,695,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Lavatory | No |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 7 |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9 |
| Galley / Refreshment | No |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 24000 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | 6600 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | PT6A–66B |
| TBO (hrs) | 3600 |
| Horsepower | 850 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 28 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (gph) | 100 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 47.3 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 47.1 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 6.1 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 5.8 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 14.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 13.1 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.5 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 35.2 |