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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.

SpecPiaggio Avanti EVO
Summary
Cockpit2
Min Crew1
Total Seats8
Flight RulesIFR
ManufacturerPiaggio
Aircraft NameAvanti EVO
CertificationFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)1530
Max Cabin Seats7
OEM VerificationUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)3775
Standard Cabin Seats6
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)400
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$ 7,695,000
Cabin
Cockpit2
LavatoryNo
Min Crew1
Total Seats8
Max Cabin Seats7
Cabin Pressure (psi)9
Galley / RefreshmentNo
Standard Cabin Seats6
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)24000
Max Cabin Altitude (ft)6600
Engine
FADECYes
ModelPT6A–66B
TBO (hrs)3600
Horsepower850
Flat RatingISA + 28
No. of Engines2
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