Cessna 208b Grand Caravan Ex vs Piper M600 Sls
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX and the Piper M600/SLS both sit in the single‑engine turboprop class, but they target different missions. The Grand Caravan EX is primarily a utility and regional transport aircraft, commonly used for short-haul commuter service, cargo, and rugged-strip operations, while the M600/SLS is a pressurized personal and business turboprop optimized for faster, higher-altitude travel with a more luxury-oriented cabin. In range, the M600/SLS generally offers longer legs for typical owner-operator travel, often around 1,400–1,600 nautical miles depending on configuration, reserves, and cruise profile, whereas the Grand Caravan EX is typically closer to about 900–1,200 nautical miles, varying with payload, tanks, and mission equipment. Passenger capacity differs sharply. The Grand Caravan EX is designed to carry many more people, commonly seating up to about 9–14 passengers depending on interior and regulations, while the M600/SLS is usually configured for about 5–6 passengers plus the pilot, emphasizing comfort and speed over maximum headcount.
| Spec | Piper M600 SLS |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 2.19 |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 |
| Flight Rules | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Piper |
| Aircraft Name | M600 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1406 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.55 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2200 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 603 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G3000 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 274 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $3,081,400 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Lavatory | No |
| Min Crew | 1 |
| Total Seats | 5 |
| Galley Location | MID |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 5.6 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Refreshment Centre |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 12600 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | 8644 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | No |
| Model | PT6A-42A |
| TBO (hrs) | 3600 |
| Horsepower | 600 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 55 |
| No. of Engines | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 260 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 29.7 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 43.2 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.1 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 12.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 11.3 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 165 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 20 |